A unique art project titled “Outside of the Box: Finding our True Selves” was recently on display at the Center on Addison. This project featured an eclectic assortment of items, including a dress once owned by a local drag queen, testosterone gel, and a personal collection of protest buttons from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. These objects may seem unrelated at first glance, but they represent the interconnection of personal and collective histories within the LGBTQ+ community.
This art display is part of the LGBTQ+ Intergenerational Dialogue Project, which aims to bridge the gap between younger and older queer individuals by preserving their shared histories. The project resulted from a collaboration between the Center on Halsted’s senior services center, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the University of Chicago, and the University of Illinois Chicago. Each spring semester culminates in art shows, while the fall cohort specifically emphasizes storytelling.
Roy Kaufman, a participant in the project, shared insights about the significance of storytelling across generations. He acknowledged that while the experiences of younger and older generations may differ, they collectively contribute to understanding how LGBTQ+ individuals have arrived at the present moment.
Terri Worman, another project member, reflected on her own journey with androgyny and remarked on the fluidity of gender perceptions among younger generations, which was not available to her generation. Worman, 69, expressed her hope for the future, stating that she sees a positive trajectory in how gender is understood now compared to her younger years.
However, this year’s art show is framed against a backdrop of increasing challenges for the LGBTQ+ community. Titled “Resisting Erasure,” the exhibition coincides with ongoing federal rollbacks of protections for trans rights. Legislative actions targeting healthcare access, bathroom and locker room rights, and other areas have raised serious concerns among community members.
The surge of over 570 anti-LGBTQ+ bills currently in varying stages of political consideration, along with uncertainty regarding marriage equality, amplifies fears about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. In light of these pressing issues, the art show serves as a vital reminder of the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
Amidst the project, Bailey Taylor’s group faced a significant change when one elder passed away, and another had to leave due to health issues. The decision to combine their groups not only fostered a sense of community but also addressed a pressing concern regarding funding for LGBTQ+ elder housing. The Center on Halsted has faced public funding cuts, and the anticipated federal grant for the class was no longer available.
In response, Taylor’s group organized fundraising initiatives that included the creation of 150 zines and 100 handmade shirts, blending archival images with contemporary design to appeal to a younger audience. However, the group also felt compelled to take a strong political stance, particularly in defense of trans women.
As a trans woman, Taylor recognized the political implications of her existence in today’s society. She emphasized the importance of being vocal about these issues, stating, “We wanted to make the most of this moment.” She called attention to the obligation to listen and engage with those whose political choices are limited.
Despite the prevailing challenges, members of the class found grounding and a sense of community through the experience. Taylor, who relocated from Seattle to Chicago, noted that the class helped her reconnect with a sense of belonging after leaving her previous community behind.
Toi Williams, an 82-year-old retiree from the finance sector, echoed similar sentiments. After moving to Chicago to be near family, Williams found solace and companionship among the younger and older participants in the class. “These are my people,” she said, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves a place in the community.
Williams has a history of activism, having participated in sit-ins against racial segregation in Nashville over six decades ago. She urged today’s fighters for rights to draw inspiration from past struggles, highlighting that work toward justice is a continuous effort regardless of progress achieved.
“Rev. Jesse Jackson had a saying during the sit-ins,” Williams recalled. “Keep hope alive.” This mantra resonates today as the LGBTQ+ community continues to confront challenges and seek affirmation and support in an ever-changing social landscape.
image source from：https://chicago.suntimes.com/lgbtq/2025/04/28/lgbtq-chicagoans-art-project-intergenerational
