We Will Always Be Here

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A Guide to Exploring and Understanding the History of LGBTQ+ Activism in Wisconsin

Jenny Kalvaitis and Kristen Whitson

Explore Wisconsin’s history of LGBTQ+ activism and meet the rich array of individuals who have helped to empower others to make positive change in the world.

160 pages, 5.5 x 8.25, 62 b&w photos
Paperback: $15.00 | ISBN: 978-0-87020-961-1
Ebook: $9.99 | ISBN: 978-0-87020-962-8
Publication Date: 6/14/2021

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Description

We Will Always Be Here presents examples of LGBTQ+ activism throughout Wisconsin’s history for young people to explore and discuss. This inspiring and educational book shines a light on powerful and often untold stories, featuring individuals across a wide spectrum of identities and from all corners of the state. Drawing from a rich collection of primary sources—including diary entries, love letters, zines, advertisements, oral histories, and more—the book provides a jumping-off point for readers who are interested in learning more about LGBTQ+ history and activism, as well as for readers who want to build on the work of earlier activists.

The LGBTQ+ people, allies, and activists in this guide changed the world by taking steps that young people can take today—by educating themselves, telling their own stories, being true to themselves, building communities, and getting active. The aim of this celebratory book is not only to engage young people in Wisconsin’s LGBTQ+ history, but also to empower them to make positive change in the world.

Author Bios

Jenny Kalvaitis

Jenny Kalvaitis has a master’s degree in Public History from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, and she has worked in informal education and museum education for over ten years. She lives in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.

Kristen Whitson

Kristen Whitson has a master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She has worked in digital preservation, community and indigenous archives, and LGBTQ+ archives. She lives in Mauston, Wisconsin.

Many LGBTQ+ people, youth and adults alike, know far too little about our history. ‘We Will Always Be Here’ has helped me see that we have never been alone and that there is so much we can do to honor the legacies of those who came before us and to continue their work to create an equitable world.

Kaia R. M. Stueck

Student, De Pere, Wisconsin

“We Will Always Be Here vividly documents and personalizes Wisconsin LGBTQ+ history, striking the perfect tone as it engages teens directly. This well-designed, accessible history should serve as a model for other states, as well as for nonfiction writing for teens in general. An essential purchase for all middle and high school libraries, classrooms, GSAs, and every public library serving youth in Wisconsin.”

—KT Horning, Director, Cooperative Children’s Book Center, University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Education

“Focusing primarily on how a young person can explore their own identity, We Will Always Be Here provides rich examples of LGBTQ+ people throughout Wisconsin’s history that can guide students to finding their place in a vital and vibrant community.”

—Jennifer Pennington, language arts teacher, Watertown High School