“When We Rise” is an upcoming documentary miniseries that will debut on ABC by Dustin Lance Black. The docudrama chronicles the political and personal struggles of the LGBTQ community from its turbulent beginnings in the 20th century to today. “We did not create this series for half a nation, “ Black said. “I believe that most Americans, including Americans who voted for Donald Trump, will fall in love with these real-life families and absolutely relate to their stories when they tune in”. The winds have shifted since Barack Obama was in the White House and homosexual leaders were rejoicing court and statehouse victories. There suddenly appears to be smog of doubt in the air that isn’t going away. Our current President and Vice President seem to not be as much of gay rights advocates as our former president, which has given way to intense anxiety and ultimately great timing for the mini-series. It is no easy feat to tell the history of the gay and lesbian movement – there still is a continual debate over the who, what, when, where, and why’s of it all – but nonetheless it is a significant story to tell. It is a merry-go-round movement of triumphs and setbacks. “We are in a period of backlash right now,” Black also said. “I would give anything for this to be less topical. But this series shows our history is a pendulum, not a straight line.”