How to Defy Anti-LGBTQ & Anti-Feminism Forces [Queer Kinship, Explained] | Pride Month 2023

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Within the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and feminist activism, Holly Hughes and Esther Newton are pioneers — breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the fields of art, anthropology, activism, and LGBTQ+ representation. The work of Hughes and Newton have shaped our understanding of gender, identity, and community. Join us as we explore their significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and human rights, delving into the power of queer kinship in overcoming anti-LGBTQ and anti-feminist ideologies. 

Holly Hughes, a writer and performer, made a lasting impact through her involvement in the renowned WOW Cafe in New York City. In the face of backlash and anti-LGBTQ sentiments during the 1990s, Hughes' art stood as a testament to the importance of queer rights and self-expression. 

Esther Newton, a pioneering anthropologist, is known for her groundbreaking 1972 book, "Mother Camp," the first major anthropological study of what would now perhaps be called an LGBT community in the U.S. Her perspective as a lesbian feminist challenged conventional notions of gender, fostering greater understanding and acceptance. Newton's work remains relevant in today's discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, LGBTQ+ rights in the Supreme Court, and ongoing LGBTQ+ issues. 

Their individual achievements have contributed to the advancement of LGBT rights, trans rights, and feminist causes. Their inspiring stories transcend boundaries, inspiring marginalized individuals to embrace their identities and advocate for inclusivity and acceptance. What can they teach us today, in the face of anti-LGBTQ bills, anti-gay laws and extremism? 

In this episode we discuss gender, identity, and Hughes and Newton’s commitment to intersectional feminism, queer kinship, and community-building to provide inspiration for fostering supportive networks and dismantling societal barriers. 

In celebration of Pride Month 2023, we honor the contributions of Holly Hughes and Esther Newton within the LGBTQ+ community, feminism, and the fight for a more just and inclusive society. Their conversation reminds us that the journey towards equality and acceptance is ongoing. Join us as we delve into their remarkable stories and explore the power of queer kinship in challenging anti-LGBTQ and anti-feminist beliefs. 

“I am very concerned and disheartened [by] the attacks on trans people. It's disheartening to see some of it coming from feminists. I think a lot of the people who are described as TERFs are not really Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists because they're not feminists. They're just exclusionary.” - Holly Hughes 

“Traditionally primary ties were supposed to be ‘blood family.’ Gay people have built structures outside of that, which I think is partly what's so appealing to young people. We must maintain those structures.” - Esther Newton 

GUESTS: 

• Holly Hughes, Performer & Writer; Professor, University of Michigan 

• Esther Newton, Professor of Anthropology, Founder & Leading Scholar LGBTQ Studies; Author, Mother Camp: Female Impersonators in America & My Butch Career: A Memoir

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Mirage” by WhatItDo Archive Group from their album ‘Palace of a Thousand Sounds’ released on Record Kicks.

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