Preserving LGBTQ History and Human Rights with Robert Kesten

Guest: Robert Kesten, Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum, Archives, and Library

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka sits down with Robert Kesten, a prominent human rights advocate and the Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum, Archives, and Library. Robert shares his inspiring journey from witnessing pivotal moments in civil rights history to leading an institution dedicated to preserving LGBTQ history and culture. The discussion covers the importance of human rights, the challenges faced by LGBTQ communities, and the significance of education in protecting democracy.

Key Topics Discussed

1. The Impact of 1968 on Robert Kesten

• Robert reflects on how the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy in 1968 shaped his worldview and motivated him to make a difference in the world.

2. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

• Robert discusses his work in promoting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights globally and the importance of democracy in safeguarding human rights.

3. The Stonewall Uprising

• A detailed recount of the Stonewall Uprising in 1969, which marked a turning point for LGBTQ rights, leading to the formation of organizations and the first Pride March.

4. The Stonewall National Museum, Archives, and Library

• An introduction to the Stonewall National Museum, which began as a small library and archive and has since grown into a major institution for LGBTQ history and culture.

5. Recreating the Stonewall Bar

• Robert describes the museum's latest exhibit, a recreation of the Stonewall bar as it appeared during the uprising, and its significance in educating both older and younger generations.

6. Challenges Faced by the LGBTQ Community

• The conversation touches on the current challenges, including book bans and legal restrictions, and how the Stonewall Museum helps to combat these by preserving and sharing LGBTQ history.

7. The Importance of Democracy and Civic Engagement

• Robert and Dr. Lycka discuss the critical role of civic engagement in maintaining democracy and protecting human rights, emphasizing the responsibility of "We the People."

8. Future Plans for the Stonewall Museum

• The museum’s upcoming plans, including a pop-up in New Orleans and a traveling exhibit commemorating the 65th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising.

Quotes from the Episode

• Robert Kesten: "The arc of history moves towards justice."
• Dr. Allen Lycka: "Education is expensive, but the cost of ignorance is much more expensive."

How to Connect with Robert Kesten

• Website: Stonewall National Museum
• Social Media: Find the museum on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and TikTok for the latest updates.

How to Connect with Dr. Allen Lycka

• Website: Dr. Allen Lycka

Conclusion

Robert Kesten’s dedication to human rights and LGBTQ history is a powerful reminder of the importance of education, civic engagement, and the ongoing fight for justice. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in history, human rights, and the preservation of freedom.

BIO:

Robert Kesten is the Executive Director of the Stonewall National Museum Archives & Library, a leading institution preserving LGBTQ history and culture. As a human rights advocate, he has produced an award-winning Holocaust documentary, worked on the Ghanaian Constitution, coordinated Ukrainian independence events, and promoted LGBTQIA+ inclusion and decriminalization efforts. Kesten has also been active in the West Bank, Egypt, and Tunisia during significant political movements.

Social Media:

Website: https://stonewall-museum.org/

IG - @StonewallArchive

TikTok - StonewallMuseum

Threads- User - StonewallArchive

Tribel - User - StonewallMuseum