The mission of the Washington County GSA Oral Histories Project (OHP) is to build a comprehensive and publicly accessible archive that preserves the diverse oral histories of LGBTQIA+ individuals residing in or around Washington County, Pennsylvania. Recognizing the importance of representation, we aspire to provide a mirror of hope for LGBTQIA+ individuals who may seek validation and understanding through the narratives of others. 

Our goal is to enhance existing communities and inspire the formation of new connections by sharing the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ people. Through the dedicated efforts of our all-volunteer team, we strive to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals to share their stories openly and authentically. By curating a collection of oral histories, we aim to contribute to a broader dialogue of acceptance, tolerance, and celebration of diversity within our community. 

The Washington County GSA OHP is committed to fostering a sense of unity and solidarity, amplifying often unheard voices, and building a foundation of understanding for future generations. Through the power of storytelling, we endeavor to create a rich and diverse archive that reflects the strength, resilience, and beauty of the LGBTQIA+ community in and around Washington County. 

The Oral History Project was founded in 2022 dedicated to documenting, preserving, and curating stories of the LGBTQIA+ experience in Washington County. Originally envisioned by the board of directors of the Washington (PA) County Gay-Straight Alliance, the OHP is staffed exclusively by volunteers and funded by private donations.  

Volunteers conduct oral history interviews with narrators. Interviews are then converted into podcast episodes by student interns from Washington and Jefferson College, who also transcribe the original interviews for inclusion into the archive. Student volunteers from the College also built the online archive. We are pleased to see that the talent and dedication of multiple people came together in a vision of community that drives the OHP forward. 

One volunteer deserving of special mention is Victor Almo (1954-2023). A founding member of the OHP and a proud member of the local LGBTQIA+ community, Vic’s memory serves to inspire those volunteers who carry on his work.  

Vic Almo (founding member) 
Sean Adamski (website builder) 
Stevie Berberick (interviewer and coordinator) 
Sinéad Bligh (W&J archivist)  
Bill Cameron (interviewer and Board liason) 
Anna Dubiel (website builder) 
Julian Elizondo (website builder) 
George Francis (website builder) 
Margaret “Lisa” E. Froyd (interviewer)  
Brendan Gueseman (audio editor) 
Emma Humphrey (audio editor)  
Henry Denver Leslie (audio editor)  
Jaden C A Raerhys (interviewer and coordinator)