WCU Joins UNCA in documenting LGBTQ lives in the mountains

CULLOWHEE, N.C. (WLOS) — Western Carolina University is now part of a project to document the lives of LGBTQ people in the mountains.

The endeavor started two years ago at UNC Asheville along with the Blue Ridge Pride Center. Project leaders say the objective is to collect a record of LGBTQ people who've lived and contributed to the area for years, but often remained invisible, especially in rural areas.

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WCU is now part of the work to collect oral histories and documents, including newspaper clippings and flyers.

“Digitally collect this stuff and then post it online so it’s available to anybody,” explains WCU Assistant English Professor Travis Roundtree.

“Gives our students and faculty and community members a chance to integrate some of this into their research projects,” says Sarah Steiner, head of Research and Instruction Services at WCU's Hunter Library.

Researchers say they hope the ongoing project now including Western Carolina University will help empower the LGBTQ community.

LGBTQ RESIDENTS IN NORTH CAROLINA NOW GET DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROTECTIONS