Out the Archives is a recurring feature diving into the Windy City Times collection, offering a look back at the rich history of LGBTQ+ Chicago.
In this edition, we look back at the May 2001 issue of BLACKlines, which included writer LaJaunessee Jordan’s coverage of the first National Black Lesbian Conference, held in Atlanta.
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In April 2001, more than 250 women—including 15 from Chicago—came together in Atlanta for the first National Black Lesbian Conference, which was put on by the Zuna Institute. The event ran for four days and featured workshops, plenary sessions and entertainment.
Some of the women from Chicago presented sessions of their own, including Deborah Benford from Affinity’s workshop on social justice. Other sessions involved education on Black women’s health and hepatitis C; building community among Black lesbians; and relationships, dating and commitment.
The Zuna Institute, which still exists today, was founded in 1999 as a non-profit advocating for Black lesbians. Most of its focus is on economic development, education, public policy support and health. It also tackles the unique marginalized position Black lesbians are in in both the LGBTQ+ and Black communities.
Another workshop, presented by Dr. Kofi Adoma of Detroit, centered on Black lesbian butches. Adoma was one of the people who helped care for Ruth Ellis—the oldest known Black lesbian—before her death at 101 the year prior. Ellis was also honored at the event with a showing of a film about her life.
Some of the entertainment for the event included a meet-and-greet for attendees over 40, a jazz cocktail reception, a prom and card game tournaments. The entertainment showcase was also emceed by an attendee from Chicago.
Some of the women from Chicago presented sessions of their own, including Deborah Benford from Affinity’s workshop on social justice. Other sessions involved education on Black women’s health and hepatitis C; building community among Black lesbians; and relationships, dating and commitment.
The Zuna Institute, which still exists today, was founded in 1999 as a non-profit advocating for Black lesbians. Most of its focus is on economic development, education, public policy support and health. It also tackles the unique marginalized position Black lesbians are in in both the LGBTQ+ and Black communities.
Another workshop, presented by Dr. Kofi Adoma of Detroit, centered on Black lesbian butches. Adoma was one of the people who helped care for Ruth Ellis—the oldest known Black lesbian—before her death at 101 the year prior. Ellis was also honored at the event with a showing of a film about her life.
Some of the entertainment for the event included a meet-and-greet for attendees over 40, a jazz cocktail reception, a prom and card game tournaments. The entertainment showcase was also emceed by an attendee from Chicago.
Following the conclusion of the conference, strategy sessions were held for each workshop category to create both a needs assessment and a national agenda. From there, the Zuna Institute planned to have a consultant take the information to create a report, then pass it on to organizations that represent Black lesbians.
Did you contribute to BLACKlines during its 1996-2004 run? We want to hear from you! Email Managing Editor Jake Wittich at wittichjake@gmail.com to get in touch.