Education in Struggles for Multidimensional Queer and Trans Movements: The Lesbian Avengers in the 1990s (Poster 25)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Eleven
  In Poster Session: Education in Struggles for Multidimensional Queer and Trans Movements: The Lesbian Avengers in the 1990s

Abstract

Queer and trans social movements in the U.S. grew from multidimensional struggles addressing connected concerns rather than ‘single issue’ gay struggle. In this case study I look to archival records of the political work of the Lesbian Avengers in the 1990s to ask what queer and trans efforts against authoritarian movements today might learn from studying their work, in curricular battles and beyond. While multidimensional views guided some Avengers, the group ultimately dissolved partly due to members’ irreconcilable positions on fighting racism and classism, including within the group, highlighting the need to actively and continuously refuse invitations to shift to one-dimensional perspectives and direct energy toward fighting authoritarianism rather than each other.

Author

• Ali R. Blake, Boston College
  Presenting Author