But We Loved

Greg Louganis is often considered the greatest diver of all time. But his sports journey was intertwined with his deep desire to be loved by his parents. He relives the moment when his HIV status, sexual orientation, and diving career all collided at once: the 1988 Summer Olympics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Willhoite, a cartoonist and author, discusses his groundbreaking children's book 'Daddy's Roommate,' which became the second most challenged book of the 1990s. He reflects on the unexpected culture war it ignited and how he never intended to be political. Michael shares his journey of identity and self-discovery as a gay man in a conservative environment, emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives in children's literature. The conversation delves into the impact of censorship and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ representation in stories for children.

Jewelle Gomez co-founded GLAAD, the premier queer media watchdog organization, in 1985. She realized early that media was a tool that could prevent homophobia — or perpetuate it. She recounts why GLAAD was founded and why it's still needed today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patrik Ian-Polk is the creator of Noah's Arc, the first scripted TV show to center Black gay men. The show defied stereotypes and developed a cult following in the 2000s. He discusses the superheroes in his own life that served as his inspirations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Staley was one of the most prominent members of the AIDS activism group ACT-UP. He is largely credited as one of the pioneers responsible for the creation of life-saving AIDS drugs. He recounts the most harrowing times of the AIDS crisis — and how he persevered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode contains frank discussion on suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. In 1998, Celeste Lecesne co-founded the Trevor Project, the nation’s leading suicide prevention organization for queer youth. It was born out of an oscar-winning suicide awareness film he wrote called "Trevor." Celeste recounts how the film was actually based on his own life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Susan Stryker, a historian renowned for uncovering pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history, dives deep into the Compton's Cafeteria Riot of 1966. She shares gripping details of this first known full-scale queer riot, highlighting its significance in the fight against systemic police harassment. The discussion emphasizes the resilience of the trans community and their struggles for dignity. Stryker reflects on how this groundbreaking event shaped her life and contributed to the broader narrative of queer rights leading up to Stonewall.

Luis Camacho Xtravaganza, a ballroom dancer and choreographer known for his work on Madonna's 'Vogue,' shares riveting stories about the rise of voguing. He discusses how this dance form offered a path to self-expression for many marginalized individuals. Luis reflects on the exhilarating yet challenging transition from underground culture to global fame, including the struggles with addiction and family acceptance. He emphasizes the lasting impact of voguing on identity and community support, celebrating its role in promoting LGBTQ+ visibility.

Rayceen Pendarvis is an elder in the House of Pendavis. Rayceen recounts the beginnings of ballroom, how it exploded in the early 90s thanks to Madonna and “Paris is Burning,” and how, simultaneously, it began collapsing from within as AIDS ravaged the community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Larry Colton, profoundly influenced by the AIDS crisis in San Francisco, shares poignant reflections on loss and legacy. He delves into personal stories that highlight the vibrant gay culture of the 70s and 80s, intertwined with the shadow of the epidemic. Colton recounts navigating love and identity amid the fear and emotional turmoil of witnessing friends suffer from AIDS. Ultimately, he transforms grief into activism, leading to the creation of the AIDS Memorial Grove, a tribute to those lost, emphasizing the lasting power of memory and love.