By Aaron Glaesman
Videographer
On October 8th, Amarillo College’s Pride club hosted a special screening of the documentary Will and Harper. This heartfelt and thought-provoking film follows actor Will Ferrell and his close friend Harper Steele, a transgender woman, navigating a cross-country road trip.
The screening was intentionally scheduled for October 8th, just days before National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11, a symbolic and strategic choice.
“We felt that the eighth would be a good median time to introduce information and give a chance of having that discussion,” said AC Pride Club President Conner Foster. “If you are LGBT and feel like you want to come out, there’s a safe space for that.”
In alignment with their advocacy, outreach, and understanding of the mission, they also provided attendees with valuable resources, including informational flyers, contact details for local accepting churches, a crisis hotline number, and information on an affirming therapist available to students.
Will and Harper offer a powerful lens into the experiences of transgender individuals, while also showcasing the importance of allyship. The AC Pride club believes the film fosters empathy, challenges stereotypes, and opens the door for meaningful dialogue, especially in communities where such conversations are often complex. “This screening is more than just entertainment; it is a chance to learn and reflect. It encourages viewers to think about empathy, acceptance, and the importance of being an ally,” says Zachary Vidaurri, the vice president of AC Pride.
A notable segment of the documentary takes place in Amarillo itself. During their journey, Will and Harper visit the Big Texan Steak Ranch, a local landmark. When Harper brings up transgender legislation during their visit, the mood in the restaurant shifts uncomfortably.
“The room started to feel very wrong to me,” Harper later told Deadline. “I was feeling a little like my transness was on display, I guess, and suddenly that sort of made me feel not great.”
This moment underscored why such events are necessary for the AC Pride club. The incident highlighted how Amarillo, and communities like it, can sometimes feel unwelcoming to trans individuals. By showing the film and offering a space for discussion and support, the club hopes to shift that narrative.
“Will and Harper allow us to not only present what it means to be LGBT and advocate for that, but it also gives outreach in a way of people finding someone they can look to or something they can understand,” said Foster.
As a grandparent to a trans child, I had already watched this documentary. It brought up questions as well as fear for these individuals. This is not a kind world we live in.