We couldn’t be happier that the Edmonton Queer History Project has just launched its first book, Cruising the Downtown: Celebrating Edmonton’s Queer History. Edited by Kristopher Wells, it is a collaborative history that celebrates the people, places, and moments that have shaped and continue to shape the Capital City by moving through civic landmarks, sites of queer resistance, nightlife, celebration, and activist spaces.
In Calgary, the book is currently in stock at Pages and Shelf Life. I have already picked up a copy; it is a colourful and lively read.
Calgary and Edmonton’s queer histories intersect and interact. Not only did the Alberta government historically impact our rights in both cities, but there has always been significant movement between the cities. For example, Calgary’s Club Carousel and Edmonton’s Club ’70 considered themselves sibling organizations, and early gay activists from both cities collaborated on provincial gay newspapers and magazines, and then later on community cable shows. The Alberta clubs built on their regional networks and helped initiate the first gay liberation activities on the Prairies in the early 70s.
There are two book launches planned in Edmonton: November 1st at Evolution Wonderlounge and November 6th at Audreys Books. Read more queer history—pick up your own copy of Cruising the Downtown. Congratulations, Edmonton Queer History Project!
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Calgary Gay History 