our story
Stamped Film Festival was founded in 2012 by Sara Latshaw as a means to create a more accepting, safe, and educated community in our Gulf Coast town of Pensacola, FL. The festival has continued to grow over the years with increased attendance and expanded community outreach activities throughout the year.
Stamped showcases the artistic contributions of LGBTQ+ films and filmmakers from around the world. The unique ability of film to transcend stereotypes and connect with viewers opens the door to meaningful dialogue about LGBTQ+ experiences, building a stronger and more inclusive Pensacola.
In 2015, we rebranded from Pensacola LGBTQ+ Film Fest to "Stamped Film Festival," a name paying homage the days when Memorial Day Weekend LGBTQ+ tourists stamped their money to demonstrate their significant impact on the local economy.
Behind the name
Our name — Stamped Film Festival — was inspired by efforts of the LGBTQ+ community in the mid-1990s to highlight the impact of their tourism dollars. After some local officials and business owners spoke out against LGBTQ+ visitors, including annual Memorial Day Weekend activities which draw tens of thousands of people to the area, many queer residents and visitors began to stamp the cash they spent with the words "GAY MONEY" and/or a pink triangle. That year, Christopher Street South, a local LGBTQ+ publication, estimated that gay and lesbian tourists spent $25 million annually in the area.
Vision
Through incremental growth, Stamped Film Festival will become a leading presence promoting awareness, inclusion, and diversity throughout the Gulf Coast region. This will include multiple film-oriented events throughout the year in addition to the annual multi-day festival. The festival will remain free of charge and open to all.
Stamped Film Festival does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, selection and acceptance of members, volunteers and vendors, and provision of services.We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all of our members, volunteers, staff, subcontractors, vendors, clients, associates, and constituents.
our commitment to inclusion
Mission
Stamped Film Festival provides an inclusive experience through film and storytelling showcasing lived LGBTQIA+ stories to cultivate a greater sense of community, understanding, and mutual respect.