In this interview Chris Joly shares how she and her partner brought a Pride Center to Jackson, MI, and the tragedy that followed shortly after Jackson's first Pride Event. Joly explains that her house was set on fire, which claimed the lives of her 2 dogs and 3 cats, by an arsonist, and her partner at the time, Nikki Joly was wrongfully accused of the arson and ended up spending over two years in prison. Joly explains how that fire and everything that followed after changed her and Nikki, resulting in their separation.

Chris Joly, Oral History Interview, 2024

In this interview community member Leif shares their experiences at Ypsi Pride, explaining that they were there reading Tarot for "This, That, and the Odder Things." Leif also speaks about their time living in London and France, the lack of a goth scene in the Ypsi area, and the fact that Ypsi has an "anything that's weird" scene instead that they prefer.

Leif, Oral History Interview, 2024

In this interview Max Taylor, a photographer for the Eastern Echo, shares their experiences working at Ypsi Pride. Taylor expresses that they enjoy capturing moments of raw emotion, and like to take pictures of people having fun in groups and smiling. They also discuss photo taking etiquette, being able to connect with others over their ace pin, and passes on the message that you should live your truth. 

Max Taylor, Oral History Interview, 2024

In this interview a women dressed like La Llorona, Disha Myles, shares her experiences at Ypsi Pride, explaining that she is dressed the way she is to draw attention to abortion rights. Myles expresses concern for the future of abortion access, her hopes for the Presidential election, and urges everyone to register to vote.

Disha Myles, Oral History Interview, 2024

In this brief interview, queer elder Terry shares his experiences at Ypsi Pride, noting that the older he gets the happier he is in his own skin and that he is happier younger queer generations have it easier.

Terry, Oral History Interview, 2024

In this interview EMU alum and community member Kevin Werner shares his experiences at Ypsi Pride, noting that he continues to come every year because he loves the community. Werner also explains that he was the first student to transition while living in the dorms at EMU in the early 2000s, is currently producing Stonewall the Musical, and discusses his involvement in trans support groups and the OutLoud Chorus.

Kevin Werner, Oral History Interview, 2024

In this interview Zizel and Rae share their experiences at Ypsi Pride, noting that they moved to Ypsi about a year ago for school. Both Zizel and Rae express that they love the artist alley, the community feel of Ypsi Pride, and want to remind everyone to stay slaying.

Lenore Romney- Address to Women's Faculty Club

Eastern Michigan University Archives

Related tracks