Preserving Pride in the Past, Present, and Future
Call for Donations: Help Us Preserve Alberta’s Queer History
As part of our commitment to sharing the stories of all Albertans, we are always looking to collect objects that reflect the richness of 2SLGBTQIA+ lives, past and present. History often lives in the everyday objects that carry our stories: the bedazzled jacket worn to your first Pride parade, the binder that helped you feel like yourself, the coffee mug shared in a queer communal home, or the drag shoes that danced across a local stage. These items, used and loved, tell us about courage, creativity, community, and care right here in Alberta.
These objects may include (but are not limited to):
- Items from queer Albertan homes, workplaces, businesses, or community organizations
- Objects from protests, parties, relationships, or major life events that occurred in Alberta
- Objects related to queer experiences in and interactions with the military or Alberta’s government services and programs
- Clothing, accessories, or performance wear from 2SLGBTQIA+ Albertans
- Items related to Albertans’ gender transition or identity expression
Whether you lived through key moments in Alberta’s queer history or simply lived your truth, we’d love to hear from you. We have noticeable gaps in our collection regarding lesbian and trans history and are especially interested in speaking to individuals who might have objects related to these areas. We treat all inquiries with care and confidentiality. Not sure if your item is what we’re looking for? Reach out! We’re happy to talk.
To start the conversation, please email or call Julia Rudko with your contact details, information about your objects and stories, and where you are located (in Alberta or elsewhere). If you’re reaching out by email, please include photos of your objects.
Julia Rudko
Assistant Curator, Daily Life and Leisure
julia.rudko@gov.ab.ca
(825) 468-6213
Please note that only objects related to our mandate of stories about Alberta and Albertans can be considered for donation. We may not be able to accept all items offered based on their condition and our space limitations.