Queer Northfield, Then and Now introduces attendees to LGBTQIA+ history in Northfield and greater Minnesota. This event blends presentations by Leila Stallone and Ulysses Swanson (Minnesota Historical Society) as well as Jaden Janak and Averill Earls (St. Olaf College) with stories from community members. This event is held in collaboration with Northfield Pride, Northfield Public Library, and the Minnesota Historical Society. Please register to reserve a seat in the main event room. Overflow seating and livestream will be available for non-registered attendees: https://www3.mnhs.org/events/31634408103. 

Event Schedule:

• Food and social time: 5:30–6pm
• Leila Stallone and Ulysses Swanson presentation - Introduction to Greater Minnesota Two-Spirit & LGBTQIA+ History: 6–6:15pm
• Professors Jaden Janak and Averill Earls presentation - “Queer Oles”: 6:15–6:30pm
• Community panelists sharing their stories: 6:30–7:30pm

To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact engagement@mnhs.org.

Community Panelist Bios: 

Deb Balzer: Deb lives in Northfield with her wife, Barbara, and two rescue pets, Nora Jean (dog) and Chloe (cat). Together since 2000, Deb and Barbara moved  to Northfield in 2016 from Minneapolis. In 2020, Deb partnered with Emily Lloyd to help organize the first annual Northfield Pride in the Park.

Aubrey Scott: Aubrey is a trans lesbian of color, who has been a Northfield local for the past 10 years. She runs an art business called Cozy Witch Art, but you might see her behind the register at Verbena Vinyl or behind the bar at Chapel Brewing. Aubrey has worked with other queer adults to provide safe spaces and groups in Northfield for youth and adults. Pronouns: She/Her

Craig "Mox" Foley: Craig is a local queer business owner of Queenie's Salon Studio and local Drag Entertainer Mrs Moxie. They are an advocate and member of the queer community here in Northfield. They partner with many local businesses frequently such as Imminent Brewing, The Grand Event Center, Queenie's and KYMN Radio just to name a few. They strive to push boundaries and help bring voices to the local queer community.

This event was made possible by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund through the vote of Minnesotans on November 4, 2008.