100 Women We Love

100 Women We Love 2011

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The 100 Women We Love – out artists, elected officials, business leaders, athletes, community activists – are role models for us all. Many are up-and-coming movers and shakers; some are at the zenith of their careers. Some of their achievements change our world and, just as importantly, others improve the world’s perception of out women. They all strive tirelessly to increase our visibility and continue our incredible progress toward equality and justice.

We proudly present the class of 2011, in random order, so each gets her well-deserved turn in the spotlight.

CHRISTINE VACHON

“At least twice a month someone approaches me and tells me I made their favorite film—and it’s always a different film!” producer Christine Vachon says of her 25-year career. She has been the driving force behind some of the most beloved, risky and emotionally demanding work in independent film. Her productions have racked up an impressive list of awards and nominations, including the Sundance Grand Jury Prize for her very first feature production, Todd Haynes’ Poison; an Emmy for the TV version of This American Life; and two Academy Awards for the gripping drama Boys Don’t Cry. Other notable films produced by Vachon include Hedwig and the Angry Inch (directed by John Cameron Mitchell) and Happiness (directed by Todd Solondz). She is the co-founder of the production company Killer Films and the author of Shooting to Kill and A Killer Life. Most recently, Vachon teamed up with long-time collaborator Haynes to produce the critically acclaimed HBO miniseries Mildred Pierce, starring Kate Winslet. –CM

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