When Jeffrey Montgomery’s boyfriend was murdered outside a Detroit bar in 1985, police didn’t even investigate what was seen at the time as “just another gay killing.” The incident turned Montgomery into a man with a mission and an improbable leader in America’s long, still-unfolding journey toward equality. “America You Kill Me,” which was originally scheduled to premiere at the pandemic-postponed 2020 Freep Film Festival, profiles the Triangle Foundation cofounder, who became a fierce public advocate and effective organizer for gay rights locally and nationwide, fighting against discrimination and lobbying for positive social representation and acceptance. Montgomery remained a fascinating and controversial figure until his death in 2016. World premiere. 

AFTER THE FILM: The post-film programs following both screenings will feature director Daniel Land. The Thursday world premiere conversation will be moderated by Michigan State University LGBTQ studies professor Tim Retzloff and will include Lilianna Reyes of the Ruth Ellis Center. The Thursday conversation will be led by Free Press columnist Nancy Kaffer.