Diversity Collective Ventura County will host a free in-person screening on Friday, Dec. 1 of the award-winning documentary “Yes, I Am: The Ric Weiland Story.” The film celebrates the life of Microsoft co-founder Ric Weiland, an influential queer pioneer, activist and philanthropist.

The 8 p.m. screening, at 2471 Portola Road, Ventura, will be preceded by a resource fair and reception at 7 p.m., and followed by a panel discussion featuring the film’s director Aaron Bear at 9:15 p.m. Bear will join the conversation virtually.

Narrated by Zachary Quinto, featuring Bill Gates, and executive produced by “World of Wonder” filmmakers Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey, the film chronicles the life story of Weiland.

Weiland helped organize Microsoft’s early successes, which made him a significantly wealthy and influential individual at an early age. Out since the ’70s, Weiland was also a champion of gay rights. 

During his life, Weiland donated more than $200 million to fund more than 60 nonprofit organizations. He also lived through the AIDS epidemic. Like so many of his friends, he was eventually diagnosed with HIV. 

Note: the movie addresses the subject of suicide.

Diversity Collective Ventura County is a community based nonprofit 501c3 whose mission is to provide advocacy, visibility, safety, and wellness for the LGBTQ+ community.