Stonewall National Museum Unveils Interactive History Exhibit

As we continue to fight oppressive regulations and celebrate in the face of triumphs, it’s clear that the tale of the LGBTQ community is storied and immense. Stonewall National Museum & Archives, the largest LGBTQ cultural organization in Florida and one of the largest LGBTQ archives and libraries in the U.S., is launching a new digital experience, In Plain Sight, that looks to engage attendees with LGBTQ history in a new and immersive way, bringing to life pivotal LGBTQ milestones and achievements along the way.

The exhibit offers historic records with up-to-date information about people who have come out in different professional areas. In Plain Sight features 800 entries with descriptions and zoom-in capabilities for high-resolution photos in 10 featured categories: AIDS/HIV, Arts, Business, Film/TV, Literature, Memorials, Milestones, Music, Sports, and Theatre/Dance.

The team designed the exhibit with the entire museum in mind, offering an engaging curriculum that provides in-depth education and opportunities to continue the conversation with the rest of their archival collection.

Of course, there is still a stigma and danger associated with being LGBTQ, though it used to be much worse and more widespread. Part of the reason for this interactive exhibit is to continue understanding where biases against LGBTQ people come from and how people today can work to overcome these barriers, this history of bias, and worked toward a more inclusive society for future generations.

Executive Director of Stonewall Huntre O’Hanian says, “For years, a static LGBTQ timeline showcased in a wall became one of the museum’s most popular areas. We wanted to expand its reach to online audiences at a time when visits to cultural institutions are restricted due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, while making it timelier and more inclusive regarding gender and race.”

If you aren’t in Florida, you can still access the timelines online at the In Plain Sight webpage, compatible on desktop and mobile devices. The in-person experience consists of two large touchscreen displays and an engaging curriculum allowing visitors to explore and examine copies of items like buttons, t-shirts, papers, periodicals, and other artifacts from the archives.

To keep up with happenings and learn more, visit the museum website.

Photo courtesy of Stonewall National Museum & Archives