Queer History is not a monolith. Featured in this display are texts that speak to the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community in the United States and beyond. As a selection of texts, this display aims to be inclusive but cannot aim to represent either a comprehensive or complete collection of queer and trans lives or texts. We hope the story told in this display inspires you to share your story as you seek out further texts and contexts for the study of queer history.
This display was created in collaboration between Oxford College Library Staff and Professor Eric Solomon. As part of this display, we have created a resource guide that groups texts using periodization taken from Dr. Eric Solomon’s American Studies 385 cultural history course “Queer Intersections.” Check out our Queer History Month Resource Guide here.
Take a look at one our additional online resources:
With the United States gripped in the panic of the 1950s Cold War, President Dwight D. Eisenhower deems homosexuals to be “security risks” and vows to rid the federal government of all employees discovered to be gay or lesbian. In addition to illuminating a little-known chapter of American history, The Lavender Scare is a timely reminder of the value of vigilance and social action when civil liberties are under attack.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe:
Aristotle is an angry teen with a brother in prison. Dante is a know-it-all who has an unusual way of looking at the world. When the two meet at the swimming pool, they seem to have nothing in common. But as the loners start spending time together, they discover that they share a special friendship, the kind that changes lives and lasts a lifetime.
Boy meets boy. Boys become friends. Boys fall in love. A sweet and charming coming-of-age story that explores friendship, love, and coming out.
There are events happening all over the Oxford Campus to celebrate the month, you can find information about these here.