June 10, 2019

LGBTQ History Will Be Included In Indianapolis Historic Area Plans

LGBTQ History Will Be Included In Indianapolis Historic Area Plans

The Indianapolis Historic Preservation Commission will include LGBTQ history in all historic area plans and says this is the first effort of its kind in the country.

In 2016, an Indiana Landmarks survey found more than 100 IHPC properties with LGBTQ significance. The criteria included civil rights, arts, health, businesses, organizations and homes.

Jordan Ryan works with the Indiana Historical Society LGBTQ collecting initiative and says it’s important to document underrepresented history.

“History tends to be very white and male and straight,” says Ryan. “So, acknowledging other communities is really key to being a responsible historian.

The effort will take place during IHPC’s comprehensive update of all 17 historic area plans, known as the Preserve Indy Initiative and scheduled to be completed by 2023.

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