June Thomas: A Place of Our Own [VIRTUAL EVENT]

Journalist and podcast host June Thomas discusses her new book, A Place of Our Own, a deeply researched and highly readable cultural history of queer women’s lives in the second half of the twentieth century, told through six iconic spaces. Hosted by Toronto Public Library in Zoom Webinar.

For as long as queer women have existed, they’ve created gathering grounds where they can be themselves. From the intimate darkness of the lesbian bar to the sweaty camaraderie of the softball field, these spaces aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity for queer women defining their identities. A Place of Our Own invites readers into six iconic lesbian spaces over the course of the last sixty years, including the rural commune, the sex toy boutique, the vacation spot, and the feminist bookstore.

Author June Thomas speaks with writer, broadcaster, and community animator Jane Farrow about about the business owners, entrepreneurs, activists, and dreamers who shaped the long struggle for queer liberation, and what is gained and lost in the shift from the exclusive, tight-knit women’s spaces of the ’70s toward today’s more inclusive yet more diffuse LGBTQ+ communities.

Important information for accessing this live virtual event:

• You must register for a free ticket via Eventbrite to gain access to this event.
• This event will be presented in a Zoom Webinar. Once registered, you will receive reminder emails from both Zoom and Eventbrite with links and instructions to access your unique Zoom Webinar link to watch this event.
• At the time of the event, you must be signed in to Zoom or Eventbrite with the same email address that you used to book your ticket in order to access your unique event link.

About this event’s guests:

June Thomas

Jane Farrow

Read more:

A Place of Our Own

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This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

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Accessibility at Toronto Public Library:

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca.