Queers in State Socialism: Cruising 1970s Poland

In the 1970s and early 1980s, queer lives and activism in Poland were complex and varied, with some experiencing isolation and others forming communities. Despite not penalizing same-sex acts, queer people were often treated with suspicion and vilification. Medical experts developed socialist methods to prompt the state to recognize transgender rights, and literary critics, translators, and art historians debated how to read gestures defying gender and sexual norms. This book highlights the differences and similarities between Polish LGBT history and that of the global West, and its relevance to scholars and students in gender and sexuality studies, social history, and politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 146 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating collection of essays delves into the vibrant tapestry of queer lives and activism during the transformative 1970s in Poland. Through a rich blend of oral history interviews, archival sources, and diverse perspectives, the contributors paint an intricate and multifaceted portrait of a society grappling with the complexities of queerness. While Poland, unlike many European countries, did not criminalize same-sex acts, queer individuals often faced suspicion, discrimination, and marginalization. Nonetheless, a sense of community began to take shape, with some individuals finding solace and belonging amidst a fledgling LGBTQ+ movement.

As they looked to the West, yearning for a sexual revolution that eluded them, queer individuals in Poland preserved informal queer institutions dating back to the prewar years. These institutions served as pillars of support, offering a haven for those who felt invisible and alone. Medical experts, in their conversations with peers across the Iron Curtain, developed their own socialist methods to advocate for transgender rights. Despite facing resistance from the state, they successfully prompted the recognition of these rights, albeit with the state's persistent efforts to surveil and intimidate homosexual men.

Literary critics, translators, and art historians engaged in lively debates about the interpretation of gestures that defied gender and sexual norms. These debates reflected the ongoing exploration of queer identities and traditions, with some viewing them as part of a global gay formation while others emphasized their local roots. The book serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students, shedding light on the unique history of LGBTQ+ rights in Poland and highlighting the interconnectedness of queer subjects on both sides of the Iron Curtain. By emphasizing the distinctions and shared experiences of Polish queers, this work contributes to a broader understanding of LGBTQ+ history and activism in the global context.

Weight: 270g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367563363