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Martin Duberman on Growing Up Gay

Duberman's memoir "Cures" is about growing up gay in the 1950s before the gay liberation movement and at a time when homosexuality was considered deviant behavior by the psychiatrists. Since our 1991 interview with him, he's authored a number of books, including "Stonewall" and "Midlife Queer." After ten years, he has stepped down from the position of executive director of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies. However, he continues to remain active in the organization, writing articles, in which, among other things he defends multiculturalism and identity politics. (Originally aired 5/20/91)

20:50
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Other segments from the episode on October 11, 1996

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, October 11, 1996: Interview with Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon; Interview with Jane Rule; Interview with Martin Duberman; Interview with Lea Delaria.
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15:09

"The Mothers of the Gay Rights Movement" on Discovering Their Identity

Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon are the founders of the Daughters of Bilitis, an early lesbian organization. They started the group in the 1950s before the rise of the gay liberation movement. Shortly after, they began publishing "The Ladder," the first Lesbian-themed magazine. Their landmark book, "Lesbian/Woman," published in 1972 has been updated. The two have also been a couple for 39 years.

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05:53

Jane Rule on Lesbians in Literature

Canadian author Jane Rule, one of the best known and most widely read lesbian writers. Rule is best known for her 1985 novel Desert of the Heart, which was later adapted into the movie "Desert Hearts." She also wrote Memory Board. (Originally aired 1/29/88)

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22:54

Martin Duberman on Growing Up Gay

Duberman has written a memoir about being gay in the 1950s -- before the gay liberation movement, and at a time when homosexuality was considered deviant behavior by the psychiatrists. It's called "Cures: A Gay Man's Odyssey.

Interview
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28:12

Writing Paul Robeson's Biography

Martin Bauml Duberman was personally selected by Robeson's son to write about the legendary African American actor and activist. Duberman says he brought to bear own experiences in the theater and as a gay man while working on the book. He joins Fresh Air to discuss his research, as well Robeson's political activity and the effect government surveillance had on his mental health.

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