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Ann Dunkin
Rachel Taylor
Ann Dunkin shares her experiences as a queer activist in Boise, Idaho, during the 1980s and early 1990s. She recounts moving from a larger, diverse city to Boise, where she quickly became involved in LGBTQ activism, helping to organize Boise’s first Pride parade in 1990. Dunkin describes the challenges of fostering a tight-knit community in a conservative environment and highlights the roles of local organizations, safe spaces, and allies, including PFLAG and MCC. Her story illustrates the resilience and unity within Boise’s LGBTQ community during a transformative time in its history.
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Doug Flanders (a.k.a. Martini)
Lisa McClain
Doug Flanders reflects on his journey as a prominent figure in Boise’s LGBTQ community, focusing on his career in drag as Martini and his involvement with the Imperial Gem Court of Idaho. He discusses the evolution of drag culture, the challenges and rewards of activism, and his role in establishing inclusive LGBTQ spaces through performances, charity work, and community outreach. Flanders’ account highlights the intersection of art, activism, and resilience in creating a more inclusive Idaho, showcasing decades of dedication to fostering acceptance and unity within Boise's queer community.
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Ned Brewer, Part 1 of 2
Lisa McClain and Rachel Taylor
Part one (Feb 7, 2022) of a two-part interview with Ned Brewer: offers an in-depth look at LGBTQ life and community in Boise from the mid-20th century to the present. Born in Boise, Brewer recounts his experiences growing up as a gay man in Idaho, touching on family history, the impact of the Boys of Boise scandal, and his struggles with acceptance in both religious and public life. He also discusses his involvement with LGBTQ advocacy, bar culture, and the Idaho AIDS Foundation, highlighting the evolution of Boise’s gay community and the challenges faced in creating safe, affirming spaces.
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Ned Brewer, Part 2 of 2
Lisa McClain and Rachel Taylor
Part two (Feb 25, 2022) of a two-part interview with Ned Brewer: offers an in-depth look at LGBTQ life and community in Boise from the mid-20th century to the present. Born in Boise, Brewer recounts his experiences growing up as a gay man in Idaho, touching on family history, the impact of the Boys of Boise scandal, and his struggles with acceptance in both religious and public life. He also discusses his involvement with LGBTQ advocacy, bar culture, and the Idaho AIDS Foundation, highlighting the evolution of Boise’s gay community and the challenges faced in creating safe, affirming spaces.
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Russ Centanni
Lisa McClain
Dr. Russ Centanni discusses his involvement with Idaho's early HIV/AIDS response as a founding board member of the AIDS Foundation of Idaho in the mid-1980s. As a Boise State University biology professor specializing in immunology and infectious diseases (1973-2004), Centanni played a crucial role in public education efforts across southern Idaho. He details the challenges of fighting stigma, developing school curricula, and providing community outreach through churches and local establishments. The interview offers valuable insights into Idaho's medical and social response to the AIDS crisis during a pivotal historical period.
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Sharon Matthies Interview #1
Lisa McClain and Rachel Taylor
Sharon Matthies reflects on her experiences within Idaho’s LGBTQ community from the 1970s onward. She discusses the social and political landscape for gay individuals during this period, describing LGBTQ+ organizations, such as Your Family Friends and Neighbors (YFFN); LGBTQ+ publications such as The Paper and Diversity; LGBTQ+ political activism, such as the No On One Campaign; and early safe spaces like the Metropolitan Community Church. She openly addresses challenges faced, especially her personal journey toward acceptance of her sexual orientation and family, religious, an social prejudices in Idaho. Matthies also addresses the influence of the Boys of Boise scandal on the local LGBTQ population, and details the development of inclusive spaces and events. Her story highlights the role of community building, religious tension, political activism, and evolving social dynamics within Boise’s LGBTQ history.
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