Iovannone to examine legacy of transgender activist in virtual talk

The life and legacy of Peggie Ames, an early transgender activist from Western New York, will be examined by Department of History Lecturer and Coordinator of the Women’s and Gender Studies Program Jeffry J. Iovannone and Preservation Buffalo Niagara (PBN) in a virtual event on Tuesday, April 27, at 6 p.m.

Ames played a significant role in Buffalo’s first gay rights organizations, educating thousands of Western New Yorkers on issues of transsexualism. She was also an established counseling resource for the Erickson Educational Foundation and the Janus Information Facility, according to Dr. Iovannone.

“Most importantly, she created a blueprint for trans activism in rural communities and mid-sized cities,” Iovannone added.

A historic Greek Revival style house, circa 1835, was the setting for much of Ames’ life and work. Not only was her residence architecturally significant, but it provided Ames, a Buffalo native, a place of refuge and allowed her to continue her advocacy in an often-hostile environment.

The two-hour virtual event and Iovannone’s blog series “Gay Places with Dr. Jeffry Iovannone” are part of PBN’s continued work to provide insight to LGBTQ history associated with existing historic built environment- narratives which are frequently forgotten, ignored or purposely left out. The program is free and open to the public but registration is required.