The Vincent Price Art Museum in Monterey Park, California, is currently hosting an exhibition titled “On the Side of Angels,” showcasing the poetic optimism of Latina lesbian activism. The exhibition, presented in partnership with the Latina Futures 2050 Lab at the University of California, Los Angeles, delves into the archives of the Chicano Studies Research Center to highlight the legacy of Latina lesbian activism in Los Angeles from the 1980s to the 2000s.
One of the key themes of the exhibition is the intersectional nature of the movement, which fought against various forms of oppression including sexism, racism, homophobia, and classism. The activism of Latina lesbians extended beyond borders, with efforts from the United States supporting peers in Mexico. The exhibition features posters from marches in Mexico City and Washington, DC, showcasing the ongoing struggle for liberation.
The exhibition draws attention to the work of activists like Yolanda Retter Vargas, whose dissertation serves as the inspiration for the exhibition’s name. Retter Vargas, a former librarian at the CSRC, played a crucial role in uncovering the history of Latina lesbians in the United States. Her work, along with that of other activists like Laura Esquivel, is showcased through archival materials and interviews, shedding light on the importance of intersectional activism and solidarity among marginalized communities.
The exhibition also highlights the collective efforts of organizations like Gay & Lesbian Latinos Unidos (GLLU), which advocated for LGBTQ+ and Latina/o/x communities. Through newsletters, flyers, and event invitations, the exhibition showcases the diverse range of activities and initiatives undertaken by these groups to support and empower their communities.
Curated by Vanessa Esparza Quintero and Jocelyne Sanchez, “On the Side of Angels” weaves together intricate narratives that celebrate the compassion and resilience of Latina lesbian activists. The exhibition features a restoration of Retter Vargas’s Lesbian History Project, allowing visitors to explore a community bibliographic research repository on an antiquated iMac. Additionally, a tribute to Retter Vargas, including her bandana, pins, and tool belt, serves as a powerful reminder of her dedication to activism.
“On the Side of Angels: Latina Lesbian Activism” is on display at the Vincent Price Art Museum until August 30. The exhibition offers a profound exploration of the history and contributions of Latina lesbian activists, urging visitors to reflect on the ongoing struggles for equality and justice.
