NJ History & Historic Preservation Conference
June 6, 2024 | 1:30 PM
Gothic Lounge (Conference Room 202 in Hepburn Hall), New Jersey City University, Jersey City, NJ
Panel: LGBTQ+ Historic Sites: Featuring the Venus Pellagatti Xtravaganza House
The State of New Jersey has a rich LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) history, yet the numerous historic sites associated with these places, events, and people are often not recognized or preserved. Throughout the country, the historic preservation profession is striving to weave more of these important threads into our cultural narrative. This session highlights the 2023 Jersey City local designation of the Venus Pellagatti Xtravaganza House, the first LGBTQ designated site in New Jersey. Panelists will discuss Venus’ story, explore ballroom culture, and investigate the challenges and opportunities in identifying and commemorating LGBTQ site-based resources more widely.
Speakers
MODERATOR: Ken Lustbader | Project co-director, NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project
PRESENTERS: Daniella Carter| LGBTQ+ youth advocate, director and producer
Michael Roberson| public health practitioner, advocate, activist, artist and community leader