Holy Ground: Queer Faith Expression in Washington, DC
Did you know that on March 22, 1965, DC hosted one of the first discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ religious identity, belonging, and community? Franklin E. Kameny organized a meeting between members of the Mattachine Society and 11 clergymen from Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish communities around the Capital. This pivotal conversation, held at American University, marked a critical moment in the history of LGBTQ+ religious history and the history of LGBTQ+ individuals of faith affirming communities in Washington, DC. In this webinar, public historian Emma Cieslik explores DC's queer faith histories. Beginning in the 1960s, this session covers religious activism and ministry during the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the creation of LGBTQ+-founded and led religious communities, and present forms of religious protest led by queer folx championing LGBTQ+ rights.