Queering the Archives

LGBTQIA+ History

Why is knowing queer history so important?

While people may have heard about a few events in Queer history, such as the Stonewall Riots, many significant events and historical figures in the LGBTQIA+ rights movement are forgotten and absent from curriculum. Learning this history can not only help everyone understand our diverse world, but be better allies towards marginalized communities. Additionally, it is easier to raise awareness and combat prejudice against LGBTQIA+ individuals when the history and past prejudicial actions or language is known. For students, it can make a significant difference in creating a safe and welcoming learning environment. Furthermore, queer oral histories are essential in gaining insight from the community itself, written in the communities own words.