June Update
Welcome to the very first issue of the Queer Digital History Project newsletter, right in time for Pride! In this newsletter, we’ll share updates on current and future projects, recently released entries and items, media coverage, and upcoming events. You can expect one of these every few months or more often, depending on our schedule, project releases, etc.
Project News
In terms of major news, we recently announced the public launch of the Read/Write Memories Oral History Project. R/WM documents the personal narratives of queer/LGBT individuals who used early digital platforms including (but not limited to) bulletin board systems (BBS), Usenet, mailing lists, proprietary platforms, or early websites. These histories collect details about the role of digital communications in early queer life, particularly before such systems were commonplace.
As part of this launch, we’ve released the recording and full transcript for our oral history with Max Vasilatos, who was an early key member of the first gay and lesbian-specific Usenet newsgroup soc.motss.
Also, if you were active during this period or know someone who might be willing to participate, we’d love to talk to you! Feel free to reach out and email us at admin AT queerdigital.com.
Recent Site Updates
New Entry: TechnoDyke.com
New Entry: EON BBS
New Entry: GayNet Japan
New Entry: Pride! Universe
Special thanks to Takeuchi Kyoko, Assistant Professor of Sociology at Kwansei Gakuin University for links and information on EON, and Stuart Cass at the Reno Project for links and information on Pride! Universe.
Events, Interviews, and News Coverage
Curator Avery Dame-Griff will be giving a virtual talk, “Love and Modems: How the Early Internet Helped LGBT Communities,” for the Sno-Isle Libraries System on Tuesday, June 25 from 6:30 to 8:00 PM (PST).
That’s it for now. See everyone in your inboxes in a few months!