Queering the District Podcast

History

About

Queering the District Podcast explores the role, history, and stories “third places” have held across time for the Queer community in Washington, D.C. Join us as we journey as far back as the 19th century and make our way back to the present day to see how various types of Queer “third places,” such as bars, parks, houses, and more, have evolved over time. Each season will focus on one “type” of “third place,” with season one focused on bars. You’ll hear from Queer elders, academic experts, and even that one drunk friend leaving a voicemail in their favorite bar as they share the stories of Queer folks who have and continue to gather in defiance, solidarity, and celebration across the District. Learn more at queeringthedistrictpodcast.com.

Episodes

  • bonus episode: turning the page - a live podcasting event

    This bonus episode from Queering the District Podcast covers a live event called "Turning the Page," discussing the history of Queer bookstores in D.C. The panel featured guests from Lambda Rising and Little District Books, sharing memorie…

  • bonus episode: gays and graves - a live podcasting event

    This bonus episode of Queering the District Podcast was recorded live at Congressional Cemetery's "gay corner." Cemetery docent Jeff Rollins shares stories of buried queer individuals. The audio quality reflects the outdoor live recording…

  • after hours with frankie witzenburg

    This episode features Frankie Witzenburg, who discusses the changing Queer scene in D.C. and shares memories from Phase One. Frankie Witzenburg is the Community Engagement lead for QueerTalk DC and co-founder of DMV Dyke Camp.

  • just the beginning

    This episode of Queering the District Podcast covers the history of Queer spaces in Washington D.C., from the mid-2000s to the present. It discusses the closing of some Queer spaces and the opening of new ones, highlighting notable bars in…

  • after hours with eboné bell

    Eboné Bell, local queer advocate and founder of Tagg Magazine, discusses her experiences performing and shares her opinions on queer bars in D.C. She also shares some of her favorite memories and hot takes.

  • no stage too small

    This episode of Queering the District Podcast, titled "No Stage Too Small," discusses the increase in Queer spaces and events in Washington D.C. from the late 1980s to the mid-2000s. It features information on various Queer bars, a Drag Ki…

  • after hours with donnell robinson/ella fitzgerald

    This episode of Queering the District Podcast features Donnell Robinson, also known as Ella Fitzgerald, a legendary Drag Queen and performer. The discussion covers topics such as her first experience with drag, getting ready with other dra…

  • an ode to the children

    This episode of Queering the District explores HIV/AIDS activism in the 1980s and 1990s, covering the impact on the queer community through bars, DJs, and ball culture.

  • after hours with john eddy

    John Eddy, co-founder and president of the Clubhouse, shares his experiences in the D.C. Queer scene and discusses the creation and traditions of the Clubhouse, a space for the Black Queer community, on this episode of Queering the Distric…

  • no place like home

    This episode of Queering the District Podcast, "No Place Like Home," traces the search for the Metropolitan Capitolites’ first bar from the 70s to the 80s. It highlights the rise of queer visibility in the District, iconic bars, drag perfo…

  • after hours with rayceen pendarvis

    This episode of Queering the District Podcast features Rayceen Pendarvis in a segment called "After Hours." The discussion covers Pendarvis's childhood in D.C., nightlife, favorite bars, and offers advice on fashion and life.

  • xoxo ladd forrester

    This episode of Queering the District Podcast examines the influence of Queer bars on D.C. Queer community from prohibition to the late 1960s. It features historical figures, locations, and personal accounts.

  • Season One Trailer: Queer Bars

    This trailer introduces "Queering the District Podcast." It will explore the history of queer bars in Washington D.C., highlighting their significance in building and sustaining queer community from the Prohibition era to the present day.