The impactful Love in a Dangerous Time: Canada’s LGBT Purge Pop-Up Exhibition, is now on display at the Campbell River branch courtesy of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
After its debut at the Nanaimo Harbourfront branch the exhibit has arrived in Campbell River and will be on display until mid-February to inspire conversation and reflection in the community. It will then move to Cowichan in late February for its final stop.
In part of this exhibition, the Campbell River library will be hosting LGBT purge survivor and veteran of the Royal Canadian Air Force LCol Steven P. Deschamps CD (Retd).
Steven was born in Cornwall, Ontario, and began his military career as an Air Cadet in 1969, later joining the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) as a pilot trainee in 1979. Just as his career was gaining momentum, he became a victim of the LGBT Purge in 1982. Determined to fight the government’s discriminatory actions, Deschamps pursued re-enrolment in the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) to challenge these injustices. His battle coincided with the landmark Michelle Douglas case, which resulted in the reversal of discriminatory practices in Canada’s military in 1992. Deschamps became the first known openly gay individual re-admitted to the RCAF after this settlement. He retired from the military in 2013.
Tea and refreshments will be provided. We hope to see you there.
