Ed Wolf: “I am extremely grateful to be attending the Side by Side LGBT Film Festival to represent David Weissman’s award-winning documentary “We Were Here.” I’ve travelled to many national and international film festivals with this film, but coming to St. Petersburg at this important time is a special honor for both myself and all those involved in the making of “We Were Here.” The current struggle of LGBT Russians to live without fear of violence and discrimination has gained international attention and this year’s Side-by-Side LGBT Film Festival is more important than ever before. Films bring people together in powerful and creative ways, and help envision a world where everyone can live as free and welcomed citizens in their own countries. LGBT men and woman are the sons and daughters of Russian people, as well as their brothers and sisters, coworkers, neighbors and artists. There are those who claim that one chooses to be LGBT when, in fact, the more important choice is how Russian people treat one another. Given the long history of oppression of Russian people by other forces, both within and outside their borders, the message of hope that this year’s film festival envisions is compelling. Side-by-side, working towards a better life for all of Russia’s citizens is clearly what is needed for a better future. I am honored to be a part of that powerful message this year.”