Description
Minutes, correspondence, newsletters, clippings,
manuscripts, notes, financial records, flyers, photographs, audiocassettes,
textiles, memorabilia and other material relating to the gay and lesbian
veterans' organization, Veterans Council for American Rights and Equality
(Veterans CARE), founded in Los Angeles in 1984 by James Highland. The bulk of
the materials was collected and donated by Edward Westrick, who served as the
organization's Commander, and relates to the activities of the Los Angeles
chapter of Veterans CARE, as well as other Veterans CARE chapters and the
national organization, Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Veterans of America (GLBVA).
Background
In early 1984, following California Governor Deukmejian's veto of AB1 (a
California state gay rights measure), writer and health administrator Jim
Highland began meeting regularly with fellow veterans to discuss issues
relevant to the gay and lesbian community. By May of that year, the group,
which had grown to approximately 30 people, began developing a charter, bylaws
and incorporation papers. The incorporation papers for the Veterans Council for
American Rights and Equality, Inc. (Veterans CARE) were signed by Jim Highland,
First Officer, on June 20, 1984, and endorsed by the California Secretary of
State's office two days later.
Extent
10.5 linear feet + 0.1 linear foot (unprocessed, awaiting
preservation).
(8 archive boxes + 2 flat archive boxes + 1 archive carton
[unprocessed]).
Restrictions
Researchers wishing to publish materials must obtain permission in
writing from ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives as the physical owner.
Researchers must also obtain clearance from the holder(s) of any copyrights in
the materials. Note that ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives can grant
copyright clearance only for those materials for which we hold the copyright.
It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain copyright clearance for
all other materials directly from the copyright holder(s).
Availability
The collection is open to researchers. There are no access
restrictions.