LGBTQ+ life in Minnesota is a chronological collection of stories that provide a glimpse into the history and sometimes turbulent nature of the LGBTQ+ experience in the state. This curation is not to highlight individual Minnesotans based on their orientation, but rather to present voices of and on the LGBTQ+ community…as it relates to the enduring fight for civil rights, societal achievements, and the act of many in attaining acceptance and inclusion in towns, family, healthcare, church, education, politics, arts, and the workplace.
June 17, 1995 - MPR’s Chris Roberts interviews members of Quorum, a St. Paul non-profit organization that champions a fully inclusive business community. Goals and strategies in the Minnesota market are discussed.
June 19, 1995 - MPR’s Karen Louise Boothe visits the Linwood Community Center, as she profiles the unique circumstances that older gay and lesbians face in the senior care setting. Boothe interviews individuals and health officials about the concerns and experiences of elderly gay and lesbians.
October 6, 1995 - MPR’s Karen Louise Boothe reports that the Governor's Task Force on Lesbian and Gay Minnesotans has completed its study and submitted recommendations to the Governor Carlson’s office. The 81-page report covers a range of issues, including youth, politics, education, and greater Minnesota. Recommendations include safe environment in schools, education training, and improving climate in smaller and rural areas.
March 28, 1996 - As part of a collection of reports looking at the transgender experience, MPR’s Chris Roberts profiles Andrea Jenkins, who is transitioning from male to female. Jenkins shares her path, both physically and psychologically. Roberts also speaks with experts about the transgender life.
March 29, 1996 - As part of a collection of reports looking at the transgender experience, MPR’s Chris Roberts profiles Deborah Davis, who expresses gender identity as female. Roberts accompanies Davis on a shopping trip and discuss one finding identity without physically transitioning.
April 3, 1996 - As part of a collection of reports looking at the transgender experience, MPR’s Chris Roberts profiles Terry, who is transitioning from female to male; and Scott Gerdes, who has already transitioned from female to male. Terry and Scott talk about finding true self in gender identity. Roberts also speaks with experts about the transition medical process.
April 6, 1996 - MPR’s Greta Cunningham takes a talking tour of Quatrefoil Library, the gay & lesbian library in the Twin Cities. Cunningham interviews David Irwin and Dick Hewetson, who discuss the origin of library.
April 17, 1996 - MPR’s John Rabe talks with Susan Gibel, of Gay and Lesbian Community Action Council (GLCAC), about the avenues for assistance in Minnesota regarding same-sex domestic abuse.
May 3, 1996 - MPR’s Dan Gunderson reports that in rural areas of Minnesota, a profound silence about AIDS and HIV is present. As a result, people with AIDS find little support…and sometimes encounter outright rejection. That stigma is of great concern to family members, church, and health officials.
June 6, 1996 - Midday discusses same-sex marriage and the Defense of Marriage Act. MPR’s Gary Eichten gets different perspectives on the ‘definition’ of same-sex marriage from guests Fritz Knaak, attorney and former State Senator; and Minneapolis family law attorney Suzanne Borne. Knaak and Borne also answer listener questions.