it has, ironically, become necessary for me to fight my own government

November 13, 2021 1:22 PM

The Adler Planetarium's Here, Queer, and Exploring Beyond the Atmosphere is a short online exhibit about the life and legacy of Dr. Frank Kameny.
posted by eotvos (5 comments total)

Kameny has been my candidate as the common name we should use for the Webb telescope.
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 1:34 PM on November 13, 2021 [5 favorites]

I had heard of Kameny before of course, but somehow I had never picked up that he was an astronomer? The stuff I read was just all about his battles with the government. I like Tell Me No Lies' idea.
posted by tavella at 2:34 PM on November 13, 2021

Thanks for sharing - I had not heard of Kamney before and it was an informative presentation. I admire the folks like Kameny and Tabler - who they quote in the online exhibit:
In 1971, while seeking a renewal of his clearance, Tabler disclosed his sexuality to investigators, saying, “I am an overt, practicing homosexual who prefers to obtain a clearance without concealing his personal life from the investigative process.”

Then, later the quote from JJ Eldridge:
“It took me a long time to be confident enough to be myself at work. But since I've lifted the weight of secrecy, working is so much easier and I'm vastly more productive. So if you can and it's safe to do so, be yourself and don't hide who you are.”

Hopefully sharing these stories will help more folks have the courage to bring their whole selves to work.
posted by skunk pig at 2:56 PM on November 13, 2021 [2 favorites]

Bonus content: Frank Kameny interview with Eric Marcus recorded on June 3, 1989, released as part of the outstanding Making Gay History podcast.
posted by roger ackroyd at 3:07 PM on November 13, 2021 [2 favorites]

Thanks for sharing this. It's great that they also profile some current scientists. I'll leave here the APS climate survey. Things can still get better.

To have the courage to not try to live in the closet when it means not being fired is a lot.
posted by lab.beetle at 7:20 PM on November 13, 2021 [2 favorites]