Description
Book SynopsisExamines the rise and development of an LGBTQ community in heart of Central Pennsylvania, and how gay identity and social and advocacy networks form outside of a large urban environment.
Trade Review“Out in Central Pennsylvania offers an important addition to LGBTQ history, giving us an expertly researched and compelling story of local activism told by the men and women who built community and political consciousness in the decades after Stonewall. In situating the particular challenges and creative efforts of LGBTQ organizing within broader national movements, William Burton and Barry Loveland remind us that the history of our fight for equality is found not only in big cities but also in small towns and rural areas across the country.”
—James Polchin,author of Indecent Advances: A Hidden History of True Crime and Prejudice Before Stonewall
“As there is no national liberation movement without regional activists and organizers, Burton and Loveland offer an important amendment to LGBTQ histories that center upon New York City and San Francisco. Out in Central Pennsylvania is this season's must-read book for our community as it powerfully shows how LGBTQ people in our region contributed to the national movement while making regional change from which we all benefit today.”
—Mary C. Foltz The Gay Journal
“A profoundly important addition to the history of the LGBTQ movement in our country. Too often we think of gay radicalism as occurring only in our busy, liberal metropolises. But William Burton casts a light on what queer community and activism have looked like in small towns and rural areas, far away from the refuges of the cultural mega-capitals. The result is a rich, astonishing account of individuals who braved all to create a place for themselves, for their friends and lovers, and for the generations that have reaped what they sowed. It is also a reminder that not all gay people have to run away from home to be open. This book is an inspiration!”
—Christopher Bollen,author of A Beautiful Crime
“Out in Central Pennsylvania has a well-crafted mix of local, national, electoral, and grassroots politics that provides a firm historical grounding. All of this is carefully augmented and brought together in a clear narrative, punctuated and enlivened by anecdotes, interviews, and personal stories. Out in Central Pennsylvania is not only moving and illuminating, but historically significant.”
—Michael Bronski Pennsylvania Heritage
Table of ContentsForeword
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Discovery
2. Sparks!
3. Awakening
4. Convergence
5. Turbulence
6. Battles
7. Pride
8. Fruition
Conclusion
Notes
Selected Bibliography
Index
