Hugh Ryan

Hugh Ryan is a highly esteemed queer historian who is passionate about uncovering and sharing stories from the LGBTQ+ community. His dedication to exploring American history through the lens of sexuality and gender identity is truly commendable. Hugh believes that in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of these subjects, it is essential to also address race, class, religion, and ability. Through his Patreon page, Hugh offers an abundance of valuable content related to his research and projects. He recently released a book titled "THE WOMEN'S HOUSE OF DETENTION," which delves into the lives of queer women and trans masc individuals who were imprisoned in New York City's notorious Women's House of Detention. This work has garnered widespread acclaim and solidifies Hugh as an authority in his field. Additionally, he shares fascinating insights into the history of the Lower East Side and East Village, shedding light on their significance as hubs for artistic and political movements. As a member of the Board of Directors for the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, Hugh also provides valuable information for queer educators in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education. His dedication to preserving queer ephemera and collections is truly admirable, as he ensures their safekeeping in archives. Furthermore, Hugh's previous accomplishments include writing "WHEN BROOKLYN WAS QUEER," an illuminating exploration of LGBTQ+ history in Brooklyn. This work not only won prestigious awards but also inspired an exhibition at the Brooklyn Historical Society. In addition to his historical research, Hugh delves into various intriguing topics such as drag kings from the 1930s, controversial queer video art by David Wojnarowicz, forgotten transgender soul music pioneers, and more. He has also contributed significantly to creating platforms for LGBTQ+ history through initiatives like The Pop-Up Museum of Queer History and collaborations with Visual AIDS / La Mama Galleria. Hugh's commitment extends beyond academia, as he uses his expertise to raise funds for providing free legal services to low-income New Yorkers at the Urban Justice Center. Overall, Hugh Ryan's extensive knowledge, passion for storytelling, and dedication to preserving queer history make him an invaluable asset to the LGBTQ+ community and anyone interested in understanding the rich tapestry of American history. By supporting Hugh on Patreon, you not only gain access to his wealth of knowledge but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of queer narratives.