The Rainbow Connection: It’s Still Elementary Thursday at JCC

When documentary filmmakers start drawing protesters and threatening letters that accuse them of trying to warp young minds — before they’ve even finished their movie — chances are they’re on to something good. Such was the case with It’s Elementary, a ground-breaking film that set out to show it’s beneficial for educators to talk with school children about lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.

Sure it sounds obvious now. But 10 years ago, the relatively tame movie about tolerance was seen by some parents as an evil attempt to indoctrinate children. (Judging by the retrospective film It’s Still Elementary, which explores the impact of the original documentary, these critics were the same people who accused Tinky Winky of damaging the moral lives of children.)

Anyhow, It’s Still Elementary screens Thursday night at the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, located at 3200 California. Doors open for snacks at 5:30, and the screening begins at 6:15. For more information, check out the GroundSpark website or call 821-9693.

-- Mary Spicuzza