And They Were Loved

Jacundo, Zion, and Marcus tell their stories about social and family pressures, growing self-awareness, and finding places to thrive. The film highlights the importance of queer-focused spaces in addressing the trauma often endured by queer people of color. During a critical year of growth and exploration, Jacundo, Zion, and Marcus reference growing up queer in central Texas while maturing into a rebirth of their queer identities. AND THEY WERE LOVED documents their introduction to queer spaces and their determination to use their voices to support the Black and brown LGBTQIA+ community through sexual health advocacy, multimedia artistry, and ballroom culture. AND THEY WERE LOVED weaves their unique stories into a powerful tale about the transformative process of self-discovery. With their vulnerability and authenticity, the three protagonists reveal the complexities of their lives including topics like HIV, chosen family, identity, depression, and reconciliation. Through its empowering narrative and visually poetic style, the film affirms the life, culture and humanity of queer people of color in America.