Oral History Interview, Callen Harty (1190)

Abstract

In his 2011 interview with Ala Larson-Lohmiller, Callen Harty discusses his sexuality and community involvement in Madison, Wisconsin. Harty knew he liked boys at a young age, but, due to the conservative nature of his environment and Roman Catholic family, as well as misinformation regarding gay people, did not come out until the age of twenty one. After coming out, Harty became involved with gay organizations in Platteville and, later, Madison, Wisconsin. Over the years, Harty has played a role in the foundation of the 10% Society at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Proud Theater. He has also been involved with Outreach and the Broom Street Theater and engaged in political activism. His most recent accomplishments include advocating for the reintroduction of the Child Victims Act - which Ron Johnson and the Catholic Church successfully worked together to defeat - and had a book accepted for publication.