Montgomery County highlights LGBTQ heritage sites for Pride Month
June 19, 2024 | Montgomery County, Maryland
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Montgomery County officials convened to discuss the significance of LGBTQ+ heritage sites in the area, coinciding with Pride Month celebrations. The meeting featured a presentation by the Montgomery County Planning Department, highlighting the importance of preserving local LGBTQ+ history and recognizing its contributions to the community.
Planning Director Jason Sartore opened the session by emphasizing the role of the Historic Preservation Office in documenting and promoting the diverse narratives that shape Montgomery County. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present this timely briefing, particularly during a month dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ pride.
Rebecca Balo, the Historic Preservation Supervisor, detailed the ongoing research efforts to identify and document LGBTQ+ heritage sites. She noted that while Maryland has historically been underrepresented in this area, recent initiatives aim to rectify this gap. Balo explained that the research process involves utilizing a variety of primary and secondary sources, including oral histories, newspaper articles, and public records.
The presentation also referenced the National Park Service's LGBTQ America theme study, which has been instrumental in guiding local preservation efforts. Balo highlighted that, as of 2020, only 18 sites in Maryland were recognized for their LGBTQ+ historical significance, prompting a collaborative effort to increase this number.
Key themes identified in the research include political activism, social life, and community support, which are crucial for understanding the local LGBTQ+ narrative. Balo shared that the Historic Preservation Office has partnered with Preservation Maryland to document and promote LGBTQ+ history, resulting in the identification of significant properties for inclusion in the Maryland inventory of historic properties.
The meeting underscored the importance of recognizing and preserving LGBTQ+ heritage as part of Montgomery County's broader commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the county continues to explore its rich history, officials aim to ensure that all residents' stories are represented and celebrated.
Planning Director Jason Sartore opened the session by emphasizing the role of the Historic Preservation Office in documenting and promoting the diverse narratives that shape Montgomery County. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present this timely briefing, particularly during a month dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ pride.
Rebecca Balo, the Historic Preservation Supervisor, detailed the ongoing research efforts to identify and document LGBTQ+ heritage sites. She noted that while Maryland has historically been underrepresented in this area, recent initiatives aim to rectify this gap. Balo explained that the research process involves utilizing a variety of primary and secondary sources, including oral histories, newspaper articles, and public records.
The presentation also referenced the National Park Service's LGBTQ America theme study, which has been instrumental in guiding local preservation efforts. Balo highlighted that, as of 2020, only 18 sites in Maryland were recognized for their LGBTQ+ historical significance, prompting a collaborative effort to increase this number.
Key themes identified in the research include political activism, social life, and community support, which are crucial for understanding the local LGBTQ+ narrative. Balo shared that the Historic Preservation Office has partnered with Preservation Maryland to document and promote LGBTQ+ history, resulting in the identification of significant properties for inclusion in the Maryland inventory of historic properties.
The meeting underscored the importance of recognizing and preserving LGBTQ+ heritage as part of Montgomery County's broader commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As the county continues to explore its rich history, officials aim to ensure that all residents' stories are represented and celebrated.
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