A new online exhibit of local LGBTQ histories includes an article that I wrote around 1977 about a women-only club in my hometown, Iowa City, Iowa.
My article “Grace and Rubies: A Women’s Haven” appears in the online exhibit “LGBTQ Life in Iowa City, Iowa: 1967-2010.” It is sponsored by Outhistory.org as part of a local LGBTQ history contest to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall riots.
I wrote about the lesbian-friendly club for the student newspaper, the Daily Iowan, when I was a journalism student at the University of Iowa.
It’s uplifting to see my place in the sweep of human history and the LGBT liberation movement. At the time I never imagined that it would be the most historically significant article of my student years.
I was born and raised in Iowa City, and a big part of my heart stays there, even though I moved away after graduation. We used to call Iowa City “the gay capital of the Midwest,” and this glorious exhibit proves it.
Special thanks to the Iowa Women’s Archives for their role in building this online exhibit.
Update on 7/6/10:
Good news! The Iowa City LGBTQ exhibit won honorable mention in a national competition sponsored by the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies at City University of New York. One of the judges was John D'Emilio. arguably the preeminent historian of LGBT history in America. There were nearly 40 entries nationwide.
I'm writing this from New Mexico, so I hope it gets there. How delightful that your article is included from Iowa. Blessings. Trudiee
ReplyDeleteIt’s cool to make that hometown connection. Maybe you’re feeling that now by being back in your home state of New Mexico, Trudie.
ReplyDeleteI’m especially glad to hear from you this morning because I had braced myself for 3 weeks without your lovely comments, since you said you would have limited computer access while traveling. Thanks for remembering the Jesus in Love Blog on your journey, and have a great trip! "Travel mercies," as they say.
Good news! The Iowa City LGBTQ exhibit won honorable mention in a national competition sponsored by the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies at City University of New York. One of the judges was John D'Emilio. arguably the preeminent historian of LGBT history in America. There were nearly 40 entries nationwide.
ReplyDelete