Our Florida Podcast
Our Florida Podcast is a deep dive into the Sunshine State’s rich history and fascinating ecology. Join 6th-generation Floridian sisters Kaylee Betts Johnson and Maegan Betts as they uncover the stories and natural wonders that make Florida unique.
Florida is one of the most popular states for a reason. Whether you're a longtime local, a snowbird, or a new resident, we hope you'll discover something new that deepens your appreciation for this beautiful and diverse place.
🎙️ Mondays – Kaylee explores Florida’s history, from conquistadors to conservationists, sharing the stories of those who shaped the state.
🌿 Fridays – Maegan dives into Florida’s wildlife and ecosystems, revealing the incredible biodiversity that makes it so special.
Our Florida Podcast
EP#21A Look at Florida's LGBTQ History
In this episode, we explore the complex and often turbulent history of LGBTQ rights in Florida, from Drag queens in the 1930s to the fight for recognition in the wake of the AIDS crisis. We take you through pivotal moments, such as the brutal actions of the Johns Committee, the damaging rhetoric of Anita Bryant, and the resilience of the LGBTQ community during some of the darkest decades. This is a powerful look at the road to Pride, filled with both hard-won progress and sobering setbacks.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Florida's LGBTQ History
02:51 – The Early Struggles for LGBTQ Rights
05:58 – LGBTQ Representation in the 1930s–50s
08:46 – Cold War Tensions and Increased Persecution
11:58 – The Johns Committee and the Witch Hunts
15:00 – Efforts Toward Visibility and Acceptance
18:06 – Setbacks and Progress Through the Decades
30:45 – The Lasting Damage of the Johns Committee
34:03 – The Purple Pamphlet and Public Outrage
41:55 – Sexuality, Misconceptions, and Misinformation
49:30 – Backlash Against LGBTQ Rights
55:46 – Anita Bryant and the Save Our Children Campaign
1:02:04 – The AIDS Crisis and Community Mobilization
1:10:53 – LGBTQ Activism in the 80s and 90s
1:19:02 – Reflections on Pride and the Ongoing Fight
Resources:
Jewel Box: https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/ft848q91n
http://transascity.org/files/news/1959_11_14_San_Diego_Union_A3.jpg
https://time.com/6176224/florida-dont-say-gay-history-lgbtq-rights/
https://cah.ucf.edu/the-committee/
Recommended Listening:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-one-lesbian-mutual-aid-during-the-aids-crisis/id162056
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-two-lesbian-mutual-aid-during-the-aids-crisis/id1620562792?i=1000697814846
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-one-act-up-how-angry-dying-queers-invented-modern/id1620562792?i=1000659219144
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/part-two-act-up-how-angry-dying-queers-invented-modern/id1620562792?i=1000659474453
#Queerhistory #lgbtq #anitabryant #dragqueen #transwomen #floridahistory #gayrights #gayactivism #lesbian #transrights #saveourchildren #pridemonth #floridapride #floridahistory #miamipride #keywestpride #johnscommittee
Thank you for listening! To learn more about the podcast, join us on Instagram & YouTube.
https://www.instagram.com/ourfloridapodcast
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If you have any recommendations or Florida Experiences you'd like to share, email us at ourfloridapodcast@gmail.com