“Tiny Table Talks” is an intimate, in-person, conversation series presented by Stonewall Columbus, designed to explore and celebrate the depth and diversity of the LGBTQ+/queer experience. Each discussion is a mosaic of perspectives, shedding light on the nuanced realities of queer life. This series is a tribute to the power of dialogue in fostering understanding, respect, and change.
“Tiny Table Talks” aims to create a reflective space where we can collectively deconstruct stigmas, challenge stereotypes, and build solidarity. It is a call to gather, learn, and grow as a community, recognizing that while the table may be small, the potential for impact is vast.
In April 2024 Stonewall Columbus presented the second Tiny Table Talk on Lesbian Visibility during Lesbian Visibility Week. Lesbian Visibility Week was born in July 1990 out of the frustration of lesbians lower visibility than that of gay men and aimed to increased awareness and support. In recent years the week has moved to a celebration in April surrounding Lesbian Visibility Day on April 26th.
The overall movement has grown and evolved to be transinclusive and embrace the intersectional identities within the movement.
[In it’s second year Stonewall Columbus’ Read Out List was “Read Out 2022: Lesbians Are Here!”]
We share reflections from participants.
I had the privilege of attending the Lesbian Visibility Week Tiny Table Talk at Stonewall Columbus. My ‘Tiny Table’ was amazing! A variety of age, experience and insight. Our conversation leaned towards our respective ‘coming out’ stories. Each experience was different – as expected – but similarities and themes seemed to bubble to the top.
A. Guest
I attended the last Tiny Table Talk around lesbians in the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoyed the small group and having time to interact with and communicate in a way that we can get to know one another better. I also enjoy getting to know folks that have not been to our events previously. The conversation was very transparent, and I felt like each of us was able to contribute to the space. The folks at my table did not identify as lesbian, but we were able to discuss the topics based on our own lived experiences. I felt heard and open to listening during out conversation and really enjoyed getting to know folks deeper that I hadn’t had the opportunity to before.
B. Guest
I was pleased to recently attend the Tiny Table Talks at Stonewall Columbus, which focused on the lives of Lesbians over the years.
It was a special evening in that multi-generations attended, each sharing their unique experiences as women who are part of this overall “queer” community. The diversity of the group was also uniquely mirrored in our similarities.
What a refreshing opportunity to share a common space, language, and the warm hugs you receive when sharing with others.
C. Guest
Sitting in the company of like-minded, intergenerational, intersectional women, discussing the ebbs and flows of life as queer people truly solidified why we started Tiny Table Talks in the first place. We discussed everything from the lesbian response to the AIDS crisis, and the coming out of a 70-something in the 1950s and a 20-something in 2020 all within the same 60 minutes. The conversation was comforting and rich, a place for jumping off points, and out of it was born a safe space for all to return to should they need it. An uninterrupted hour of conversation without screens, without the presence of discomfort or nuance or judgment or fear is a rare find these days and to be able to facilitate that for 10 incredible people at one time is special, and not something I take lightly.
D. Guest
