An Ode to Zine Fests

The San Fernando Valley Zine Fest (also know as SFV Zine Fest) has been my passion project since 2017. We don't make any money off it, we just do it for the love of the zine community. And personally, I just feel super strongly about paying it forward.

I had a really hard time finding my people when I first moved to LA. I came here to finish film school and was blacklisted by that community for going into the adult industry. I eventually found roller derby, and through that I found the world of zines and never felt so quickly welcomed and supported. I showed up 110% me and the zine community didn't just tolerate it—they celebrated it. I'll never forget the impact of every open hearted, vulnerable, and talented zinester that I've shared space with at fests and online. I even get to call a few of them my friends! For that, I really can't imagine ever quitting on SFV Zine Fest. Zine fests mean a fucking lot to me and I've been told they mean a lot to others as well. Fuck, I get emotional just thinking about it!

ANYWAY. I said all that to say that our applications for this year's virtual fest are open! This year we're highlighting LGBT2QIA+ zinesters and welcome applicants from around the world! It'll launch this September and we've got some really dope virtual events in the works. You can apply here or keep an eye on our site and Instagram for more info on our virtual events (which will also launch in September).

PS: This pic is my favorite picture from our last in-person fest in 2019. I love all the zinesters, but I love their fat fur babies even more!