San Francisco Transgender Film Festival brings hope after progressive election wins

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- It was a packed house at the Roxie Theatre Saturday night. In fact, the entire place was sold out for three days for the San Francisco Transgender Film Festival.

But the buzz this night was also about a larger, nationwide movement.

"We had this great election a few days ago which is maybe a watermark for how far we've come in the last few years," said Shawna Virago with the SF Transgender Film Festival.

In Virginia, Danica Roem became the first openly transgender person elected and seated in a state legislature.

"Love to see that she defeated the chief homophobe in Virginia. It's great and wonderful to see people supporting us," said Festival attendee Kenna Fisher.

"It gives hope that maybe some of our struggles, the needs of our community will finally get hear in a bigger way," said Salaams, an Oakland resident.

Many at the festival admit, things have changed since President Trump took office but not for the better.

"Wish there was a stronger movement because The Trump Administration is really putting us down, but I'm optimistic," said Julian Monterio, a festival attendee.

For the transgender community, this week's elections and the film festival's success are proof that this group is growing.