Ohio History Connection

The Ohio History Connection will launch the “Marking Diverse Ohio” project to identify the stories, spaces, and places that reflect the impact of LGBTQ+ Ohioans in shaping the state’s larger history. As part of its Gay Ohio History Initiative, the museum will partner with Equality Ohio and a network of partners to build a foundation of primary sources to support the placement of ten LGBTQ+ historical markers across Ohio. The project team will conduct statewide outreach to solicit narratives for the markers and related oral histories, artifacts, and records and form a community of practice through convenings and workshops. Museum staff members will participate in training in LGBTQ+ cultural competency and trauma-informed care to support this work. The project will enable the museum to build trust with this historically excluded community and to document and share their stories more broadly.