Black Queer History IS Black History
This article was originally published in the Chicago Sun-Times. The complete text of the article can be found here.
“When Joan Jett Blakk ran for mayor — whether or not people thought it was a possibility — it opened up a range of conversations and interactions that wouldn’t have happened otherwise,” said Mary Morten, an activist and founder of Morten Group, a consulting firm focused on social change and advocacy.
Blakk also was a write-in candidate for president the next year. She advocated universal health care, LGBTQ rights, reproductive rights and eliminating student debt.
“Because we still tend to think of LGBTQ folks as white and male, anytime we can see a person who does not fit that particular profile, it’s a win,” said Morten.
Members of the Gay Liberation Front hold rally in Grant Park.
Chicago Sun-Times collection/Chicago History Museum
