Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is looking for members of the LGBTQ+ community in Aurora to submit their stories to our upcoming Community Voices exhibit to be displayed in June. This exhibit is a unique opportunity to share personal experiences, challenges, triumphs, and everything in between, culminating in a powerful visual display of diverse voices that represent our community.
By sharing your story, you contribute to a more inclusive and understanding Aurora. You help others see themselves reflected in your experiences, fostering empathy and connection. “A goal of Community Voices is to uplift the voices of people who have been disenfranchised so that we can all reach a place of compassion, tolerance, and understanding,” said teen librarian, Flannery Crump. Sharing your story can be a cathartic experience, and the exhibit will create a space for dialogue and connection with others. “It takes such bravery for customers to expose their story to a wider population and the Library recognizes that,” said Library assistant, Ratna Avasarala. “We welcome these stories with an open heart!” Your story has the potential to leave a legacy and offer valuable insight into the LGBTQ+ experience in Aurora for future generations. “We are viewing this through a lens of living history,” adds Foundation Manager Jordan Lesniak. “These stories are still playing out as we develop this series.” This is your Library, and you belong here! Claim your space at the Library and in your community by sharing your story.
What kind of stories are we looking for? “It might be a story about how their queerness has brought joy to their life, it might be a story about the struggles they’ve faced, it might just be a silly story about something funny,” adds Crump. “All kinds of stories are welcome!” In case you need help getting started, staff members have provided specific prompts to help you draft your story, the main questions being ‘What is a source of pride for you in your heritage/identity?’ and ‘What do you wish our greater community knew about your heritage/identity?’ Take a moment to reflect on your own life. Whether you currently identify as LGBTQ+ or not, what details would you include in your story? Details about everyday life, the challenges you face, or a milestone celebration are all relevant and important aspects of your identity.
There are multiple ways to submit your story but be sure to do so by March 31. Stories can be submitted in written, audio, or video format. You may also request a Zoom interview where Library staff members will record and transcribe your responses for your review. All submissions are confidential, and you can choose to remain anonymous if you wish. “Each participant can expect to be shown dignity from our committee as we draft their interviews and create a safe space in which they can share what they like,” said Lesniak. “What’s really important to remember is authenticity.” Our hope is that a common theme emerges throughout these stories. We hope to see a diverse community not only in the LGBTQ+ community, but, culturally and intellectually.
We encourage you to take advantage of this incredible opportunity to share your voice and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding community. Let’s paint a vibrant picture of the LGBTQ+ experience in Aurora together; one that highlights action and success, but, identifies past struggles and future concerns. For more information about how to submit, please visit www.
aurorapubliclibrary.org/communityvoices or contact the Library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.