Ruth & Billie portrays the realities of two siblings on a journey of self-actualisation, as they grow into their sexual and gender identities whilst growing up within a conservative Catholic family in a rural town in Italy. This series examines how dogma and tradition influence our understanding and acceptance of sexual and gender identity and diversity.
Billie is 18-years-old, and although they were assigned female at birth, they identify closer to male in terms of gender identity. Ruth is 22-years-old and identifies as female, and as pansexual, which means she finds herself attracted to people of all gender identities. Both Billie and Ruth began dealing with the emotional and physical challenges of their sexual and gender identities during their secondary school years, where they were faced with isolation and social stigma.
Ruth & Billie reflects on challenges faced by many in LGBTQIA+ community in Italy, which has faced significant marginalisation in recent years under the newly-elected Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Since Meloni’s election in 2022, Italy has regressed on LGBTQIA+ and women’s rights, such as retracting limiting parental rights of same-sex couples, cancelling Pride marches throughout the country, and blocking the extension of anti-discrimination laws, which would have prosecuted discriminating against anyone on the grounds of their sexual orientation, gender and gender identity.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Accept
