"I Me Us" is a 2025 documentary film produced in Cumbria that shares the personal stories of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals in the county, highlighting the challenges they face with prejudice but also celebrating their bravery in sharing their experiences. The film aims to foster understanding and a sense of belonging for the local LGBTQ+ community, many of whom feel forced to leave for larger cities to find a community. 

Produced by Carlisle-based Eden Film, the film was part of a Heritage Lottery-funded project aimed at amplifying underrepresented voices in rural communities.

The documentary features deeply personal stories from local residents, including Mason, who shares his journey of transitioning and the emotional moment when his brother offered him shirts in a gesture of support. “If just one person can see the film and feel more comfortable, or happy in themselves, then I've done enough”.

Producer Debbie Sweeney highlighted the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in rural areas like Cumbria, where prejudice and isolation can be more pronounced. “Somewhere like Cumbria, there's a lot of prejudice and they maybe find it hard to fit in, so it's nice that we can produce a film like this,” she said.

Director Paddy Sweeney praised the courage of participants who shared their stories on camera, noting that some initially withdrew due to fears about visibility and potential repercussions. “It takes real bravery to speak your truth, especially in a small community,” he said.

A woman with glasses and blonde hair is sitting on a chair in front of a purple curtain, being recorded with a camera on a tripod.
Indoor gathering with rainbow-themed decorations and a person wearing a red knit hat with a pom-pom, facing away. Several people are seen, including a woman sitting and others talking or using equipment. Bright, colorful banners hang from the ceiling, and there are signs on the walls, including one that says 'Keep Calm and Glam on,' and a mirror with a rainbow flag in the background.
Profile of a young person with blue and white face paint, a brown bandana with white patterns, earrings, and a nose piercing, looking to the right.
A person walking down a wet, brick-paved street on a rainy day. The street is lined with shops, some of which have signs indicating they are available to let. String lights decorate the upper part of the street.
A young man with short blonde hair wearing a black hoodie with red drawstrings, standing indoors with a colorful background.
Black and white photo of a young woman with glasses, shoulder-length hair, wearing a bandana and a necklace.
People gather outdoors in a small town square with historic brick buildings, leafless trees, and a fountain. One person with a brown leather bag in the foreground, others are standing and sitting, some taking photos.
Close-up of a woman with long brown hair and light complexion, speaking or reacting with an expressive face indoors.
A young man with short dark hair smiling against a purple background.
Three people at an outdoor fair, two dressed in punk and goth styles, with booths and tents in the background.
A person with curly hair wearing a black t-shirt walking on a grassy area with small bushes, a pathway, and houses in the background.
People gathered in a park with a large tree and brick buildings in the background. Two women are standing and talking, while a man adjusts a camera on the ground. A sign reads 'The Cupboard,' and a person in a green jacket is visible in the distance.