Watch: 'Ribbons' is a Tribute to Those We Lost to AIDS

The short film ribbons recounts a day in 1997 when writer/director Brandon Cordeiro visited a public memorial on a beach in Provincetown, Massachusetts after AIDS had taken its toll on the town’s gay male population. 

As a first-generation Portuguese kid, seeing the strands of ribbons with heartfelt messages to loved ones left an undeniable impression on Cordeiro.

These ribbons are part of the annual Swim For Life event in Provincetown, which is in its 28th year. 

“Sharing ribbons with the world has been a beautiful gift,” Cordeiro said to Towleroad, “and continues to bring opportunities that I would never have imagined. “Born and raised in Provincetown, MA, I was fortunate to be surrounded by a diverse and inclusive LGBTQ community, people like me, and learned about our struggles and accomplishments in a unique way. Many lack this exposure and support, but LGBTQ visibility saves lives. It is imperative that we continue to tell stories with LGBTQ protagonists and tribute the many untold stories within our community.”