Placer County Democrats Host Memorial Day Weekend Screening of Award-Winning LGBTQ+ Military Documentary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2025
PRESS RELEASE
Placer County Democrats Host Memorial Day Weekend Screening of Award-Winning LGBTQ+ Military Documentary
LINCOLN, CA — Over Memorial Day weekend, the Placer County Democratic Party hosted a powerful community event honoring veterans and LGBTQ+ service members with a screening of the award-winning documentary Surviving the Silence. The event was followed by a conversation with Col. Pat Thompson and Barbara Brass, the couple at the center of the film, who shared their decades-long journey of service, love, and activism.
The documentary tells the story of Col. Thompson, who was tasked with expelling a fellow Army officer who admitted she was a lesbian while secretly maintaining her own same-sex relationship. The film explores the personal toll of hiding their love, the painful contradictions in military policy, and how their quiet resistance helped shape the movement that led to the allowing of all Americans to serve, regardless of who they love.
Attendees were deeply moved by the couple’s candid reflections and their transformation into outspoken activists. Col. Pat and Barb remain active in the Placer County community, holding weekly rallies and speaking events.
“Memorial Day reminds us of the sacrifices of those who served. We must honor all who have served with courage, including those forced to do so in silence,” said Nick Bennett, Chair of the Placer County Democratic Party and Army veteran.
In an era where LGBTQ+ rights in the military are again under political attack, the stories shared at this event offered both a warning and a call to action.
The Placer County Democratic Party remains committed to celebrating service, defending civil rights, and creating space for conversations that inspire justice and change.
See Col. Pat Thompson and Barbara Brass’s remarks here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuooFGU30JA
