In the 1970s, women who left their husbands and came out as lesbians routinely lost custody of their children. A distant relative, an aging grandparent, or an abusive father would each be more likely to be awarded custody, while the mothers would even discover that finding a lawyer to help them win their children back was essentially impossible. These atrocious custody battles inspired a group of young Seattle lesbians to found the Lesbian Mother’s National Defense Fund in 1974. They circulated a newspaper called “Mom’s Apple Pie,” publicizing lesbian custody cases nationally, and raising consciousness about lesbian moms, childcare, and civil rights. MOM'S APPLE PIE chronicles the experiences of mothers and children from this dynamic and courageous era. Directed and produced by local filmmakers Jodi Laine, Shan Ottey, and Shad Reinstein, this film’s inspiring message will motivate and encourage viewers to face the battles for progress and justice yet to come.

MOM'S APPLE PIE: THE HEART OF THE LESBIAN MOTHER'S CUSTODY MOVEMENT; Jodi Laine & Shan Ottey & Shad Reinstein, directors; 2006; US; 61 minutes; video

Copresented by Pacific NW Lesbian Archives