More Articles | WI LGBTQ History Project

News Articles:

January 31, 2025

We proudly celebrate Black History Month

This month, we'll be showcasing the Black changemakers who are making Wisconsin history.

August 05, 2024

Together, we will create a more just, equitable, and compassionate society where everyone is free to live authentically and without fear.

June 05, 2024

Wisconsin dedicates first LGBTQ historic landmark

The Black Nite Brawl was Wisconsin's first LGBTQ uprising -- eight years before Stonewall -- and triggered a social awakening that changed history forever.

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Blog Articles:

February 27, 2025

Marquise Mays: storytelling seasoned with social justice

As a storyteller, archivist, and advocate, Marquise Mays is committed to truth-telling in all its forms.

February 26, 2025

Rosha Brister: determined to manifest her dreams

By launching a new Black-owned, women-owned, lesbian-owned business, Rosha is building a bold legacy of inclusion.

February 26, 2025

Sarah Woods: we have the power to create change

Whether in the office or behind the turntables, Sarah’s mission is the same: to inspire, uplift, and create space.

February 26, 2025

Ritchie T. Martin Jr: learning to trust the journey

As a gay Black youth, he found himself at the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center. Today, he's leading the center's future.

February 25, 2025

Matthew Lewis: move in the direction of love

As a poet, storyteller, and strategist, Matthew has learned how to connect with his dreams and claim his destiny.

February 24, 2025

Jamal Perry: standing in his truth

Growing up, Jamal didn't see queer Black representation in his world. He chose to be the difference.

February 23, 2025

Aaleh Hughes: don't be scared to be yourself

As a performing artist, showrunner, and emerging leader, Aaleh is inspiring and uplifting Wisconsin's next generation.

February 20, 2025

DJ Femme Noir: trust your track record

From choir to Motown to the Milwaukee Bucks, music has always been in Tempestt's DNA.

February 17, 2025

Tyrone Creech: we will not be quiet

As a fifth-generation Madison leader, taking care of the community is part of Tyrone's family legacy.

February 10, 2025

Dezjorn Gauthier: the future is ours

Dezjorn is passionately committed to uplifting the Black trans community in Milwaukee and beyond.

February 07, 2025

Rai Hudson: forging a more inclusive future

"We are survivors. I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that we will get through this."

October 18, 2024

Kenya Black Dupree: give yourself a chance to live

As a high school sophomore, she was the first out trans girl to attend Milwaukee Public Schools. Decades later, she shares her triumphant story.

October 03, 2024

Evanna Breedlove: a lifetime of love and magic

Over thirty years after moving to New York City, Evanna reflects on growing up Black and trans in the dance clubs and drag cabarets of Wisconsin.

September 05, 2024

Travis Lynch: building community, compassion, and respect

He grew up without roles models or representation. Now, as a bisexual Black entertainer, he's creating both for our community.

July 19, 2024

Francesca Wilson: bringing innovation to nightlife

A world traveler returns to her hometown with a mission to bring an inclusive, international sensibility to queer Milwaukee nightlife.

July 01, 2024

Janice Toy: living her truth

Growing up in 70s and 80s Milwaukee, Janice triumphed over the challenges in her journey. Now, she wants to pass along what she has learned to others.

July 01, 2024

George Poage: the thrill of victory, the agony of being seen

Celebrating the triumph of Wisconsin’s first gay Black Olympian: George Coleman Poage.

June 17, 2024

Shannon Dupree: breaking barriers to be seen

She was told to "stay in her lane." Instead, she chose to break all the rules -- and became a drag legend.

April 29, 2024

Brenda Coley: building a healthier, stronger, louder community

"We have a real struggle now, and I don't think people fully understand what we're up against."

March 25, 2024

Jerry Dreva: shattering the status quo

Jerry Dreva was a brilliant artist who never owned a gallery. His canvas was the life around him.

March 23, 2024

Eric Wynn: my life as a Club 219 girl

Erica Stevens was one of Milwaukee's most electrifying drag superstars of the early '80s -- until she walked away at the height of her fame.

March 01, 2024

Nik Santilli: rewriting the rules of gender expression

For most of the 20th century, gender expansive people lived in fear of sexual harassment under the mythical "three piece rule." In 1971, the Santilli case changed everything.

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