Film and discussion

Lesbian History Group, London, 24 May, 2025
Topic : Breaking the Silence – film.

Guest Speaker: Melanie Chait

“Breaking the Silence” (1984) directed by Melanie Chait, is a documentary highlighting the struggles of lesbian mothers in the UK in the 1970s/80s. It details the experiences faced and the custody battles fought when women left their husbands, as judges considered them unfit mothers because of their sexuality. The film was groundbreaking in its portrayal of the experience of lesbian mothers and led to increased awareness of the discrimination against them.

Melanie Chait has made award winning social justice documentaries in countries around the world for the last 40+ years

Note: Could Melanie Chait have feedback on the film? If there are lesbian mothers or grown children of lesbian mothers, she would love to hear from you, at email – kboschind@gmail.com

Discussion following the screening.

Research referred to in discussion:

• Lesbian Mothers’ Legal Handbook.
  Rights of Women Lesbian Custody Group.
  Women’s Press. 1986.
  ISBN: 0704339889, 9780704339880
  Available here
  
  
• Valued Families: Lesbian Mothers’ Legal Handbook.
  Lynne Harne and Rights of Women.
  Womens’ Press. 1997.
  ISBN: 9780704345171
  Available here

Lesbian History Group would like to thank MaryM for videoing the talk and creating this web page.