On August 6, Martin Meeker, author of Contacts Desired: Gay and Lesbian Communications and Community, 1940s-1970s will speak on the rise of the gay Tenderloin. Meeker will discuss the role of gay bars in the movement’s early days and the historic drive led by Glide ministers in 1965 to secure federal War on Poverty dollars for the Tenderloin’s queer youth.

This historic step forward for the gay and lesbian civil rights movement is a remarkable yet little known story. Lesbian pioneer Phyllis Lyon was among the Tenderloin activists central to this fight, and many joined her in becoming key leaders in the city’s broader movement.

Meeker was also formal adviser to the Tenderloin Museum!

Admission is $5.00. Doors open at 6. Event starts at 6:30 pm.

Copies of Meeker's book, "Contacts Desired" will be available for purchase, and the author will be on hand to sign.