Recommended reads for LGBTQ+ history buffs, and those who wish they were
Discovering LGBTQ History (@lgbtqarchives)
From the desk of the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration comes STONEWALL@NARA. @lgbtqarchives is a repository for documents reflecting the history of American LGBTQ+ people from 1778 to now. Some of it is inspiring, much of it is harrowing, all of it tells a story.
Queer Portraits in History (@queersinhistory)
Illustrator Michele Rosenthal (@dialmformichele) is using her artistic talent to honor prominent figures in the LGBTQ+ community. That little circle above showcases the Mother of Blues, Ma Rainey. She recorded over 100 albums in a mere five years. In one song, Prove it On Me, she made it clear she wasn’t ashamed of who she was: “Went out last night with a crowd of my friends / They must’ve been women, ‘cause I don’t like no men.” Considering it was recorded in 1928, it was a particularly bold statement.
Gay Writes (@gaywrites)
Staying informed in this political climate is becoming increasingly important. Let this Tumblr be a gentle guide through those rough waters. It’s a living compendium of U.S.-centric LGBTQ+ news, media, and culture. Keep yourself abreast of the latest news without ever leaving your dashboard.
The Gran Varones (@thegranvarones)
This legacy project uses storytelling to signal boost the voices of a community that needs it: Latino and Afro-Latino gay, queer, and trans men. It sheds light on individuals whose sexuality and ethnicity often means they are facing a disproportionate amount of scrutiny. These stories are uplifting, they’re normalizing, and they’re so needed.
365 Days of Lesbians (@365daysoflesbians)
Come next Leap Year, they’ll have to temporarily change their name to 366 Days of Lesbians. For now, enjoy this wonderful blog that presents you with a photo and biographical write-up of one self-identifying lesbian (or activist group, as pictured above) every dang day of the year.
