Our first gathering at Madame of the Arts was a success beyond what we expected. About 25 people gathered from ages 16-70 representing a range of LGBTQ identities, races and classes. Our three featured speakers shared their stories in small groups and facilitated space for attendees to share their stories. We were inspired by the vulnerability of people's stories and the ways that connected us. So we kept going. Join us as we continue to Tell our Queer History. 

Chong Moua - Hmong mother shared her story of coming out as queer in a culture that doesn't have a word for that because there isn't a tradition of accepting LGBTQ people. Chong has been involved with Shades of Yellow (SOY) the first and only Hmong Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) nonprofit organization in the world that works to provide support, education, advocacy, and leadership development to Hmong/Asian Pacific Islander (HAPI) LGBTQ and allies.

Harry Waters Jr. - Professor Waters’ career in professional theatre and film extends to students in THDA through his courses in all levels of acting and his mainstage productions.  In addition to his ongoing professional work, Professor Waters works on various community-based theatre projects in the Twin Cities and nationally, and is a committed dramaturg and deviser in support of emerging artists’ development.

Barbara Satin - Barbara Satin is a transgender activist involved with both local and national gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer communities and organizations.Barbara is a founder of GLBT Generations, a group that has worked to educate people about the needs of LGBT persons as they grow old. She is also a member of Living Table (formerly Spirit of the Lakes) United Church of Christ in Minneapolis, and was instrumental in helping develop a 46 unit affordable rental facility, Spirit on Lake, which opened in Minneapolis in 2013 and is providing safe and respectful housing for LGBT seniors. Barbara is the Assistant Faith Work Director for The Task Force. Barbara works on a variety of social justice issues that have a faith component, including assisting faith settings in welcoming and affirming transgender persons.