New Video Series on TransNebraska Website Produced by Bellevue University’s Eli Rigatuso
Videos Feature Nebraskans Who Are Transgender, Nonbinary and Two Spirit
Eli Rigatuso, a Senior Producer/Director at Bellevue University, has produced a series of videos for the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska that highlight Nebraskans who are transgender, nonbinary and two spirit, a term used by many Indigenous communities to describe LGBTQ+ tribal members.
The first video, which features eight Nebraskans discussing their thoughts on dignity, equality and respect, is available now on YouTube and TransNebraska.org, a website run by the ACLU of Nebraska. An additional five videos in the series featuring in-depth stories on individuals will be released in the coming weeks.
Rigatuso produced the videos through Speaking of Happy, a virtual platform and outlet that he founded by and for people who are 2SLGBTQ+. Rigatuso is a Nebraska native and has worked at Bellevue University since 2012.
“As a transgender and two spirit person myself, I was honored to capture these stories and I am proud of the participants,” Rigatuso said. “My goal was to highlight our diversity - and more importantly, our joy. We are extraordinary Nebraskans who are thriving despite what we have to face.”
“Eli’s videos will help people learn more about the lives of their fellow citizens, and that is a positive step toward a more inclusive society,” said Bellevue University President Mary Hawkins.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).