A Word From The Archives

Announces Paid Internship Program

By Nicole Verdes

In the face of adversity, the preservation of LGBTQ+ history becomes not just a matter of memory but an act of defiance, resilience, and empowerment. As we navigate through a political climate fraught with challenges to LGBTQ+ rights and identities, the significance of LGBTQ+ archives shines brighter than ever before.

In the current socio-political climate, the work we do at Lambda Archives takes on heightened significance. As anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policies continue to proliferate, LGBTQ+ youth face disproportionate levels of discrimination, harassment, and mental health challenges. The resources and support provided by Lambda Archives become lifelines for these vulnerable populations, offering not just historical validation but also a sense of belonging and community.

This year, we are excited to announce a paid internship program for local LGBTQIA+ youth. The spring 2024 internship program will focus on pairing transitional-age youth (ages 18-20) with elders in the community for an opportunity to cultivate empathy, understanding, and solidarity across generations. Each intern will be paired with an elder and create a project including a conversational style oral history interview, a historical bio, a newsletter article, and an exhibit display; all featuring their elder and related topics. The application for our youth internships is now open and the deadline to apply is April 12th.

This collaborative effort exemplifies the inclusive and community-centered approach that defines the ethos of Lambda Archives, reinforcing the significance in preserving our collective memory and shaping a more inclusive future.

In Solidarity,
Nicole Verdes
they/she
Managing Director