Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Freeheld (2007)

Play Trailer

Film Lens

Freeheld
Freeheld is a 2007 documentary directed by Cynthia Wade that tells the story of Laurel Hester, a New Jersey police officer diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. The film focuses on her fight against the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders to secure pension benefits for her domestic partner, Stacie Andree. Despite New Jersey's Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act allowing such benefits, the Ocean County Freeholders refuse to extend them to domestic partners, prompting public protests organized by Garden State Equality. The documentary captures the emotional and political struggle surrounding Laurel's case, featuring testimonies from her colleagues and community members who advocate for her rights. It shows the larger issues of LGBT rights and the challenges faced by same-sex couples in securing equal benefits. The film culminates in a powerful display of community support and activism, emphasizing the need for change in local government policies regarding domestic partner benefits.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Laurel Hester, a police officer fighting for her partner's rights.
  • •See the public protests organized by Garden State Equality.
  • •Find out how local government decisions impact LGBT rights.

Did You Know

•Freeheld won the Oscar for Best Documentary Short Subject on February 24, 2008.
•The film received a Special Jury Prize at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival.
•Freeheld has played in over 50 festivals worldwide and earned 14 festival awards.
•A film adaptation starring Julianne Moore and Elliot Page was released in October 2015.

Perfect For

LGBT rights advocatesDocumentary enthusiastsNew Jersey history