You may have noticed some portraits on the side of the library’s shelves.
This collection was created through WeTeachNYC.org, an online space created by the New York City Department of Education. The portraits feature historical figures from the LGBTQ+ community. As indicated by the website, “The design and included resources allow teachers to integrate and explore inclusive learning experiences that validate the diverse perspectives and contributions of underrepresented individuals and groups. The Hidden Voices project is a product of collaboration between the NYCDOE and many scholars, institutions, and educators.”
Historical figures such as Audre Lorde, Ma Rainey, and Albert Cashier are included in the portrait set.
Hugh Ryan conducted the historical research and wrote the captions of the project. Artists including Michelle Zhuang, Cristy Road, and others illustrated the portraits.
For further reading and resources and viewing the portraits themselves, visit WeTeachNYC.
Note that a previous post incorrectly credited Hugh Ryan as an artist. It should also be noted that the portrait of Albert Cashier is not displayed in the library.
