The Astro Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf Records

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: MSS243

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The bulk of these records consist of the bylaws, meeting minutes, and officer reports for ARAD, particularly from the years 1997-2004. There are only a few minutes and reports from before 1997. After 1999 there is also a relatively low amount of minutes, but it is not clear whether this reflects an omission or whether ARAD was simply meeting less often. Also included are extensive membership lists, including lists and obituaries for deceased members.

The records also include some material from other deaf LGBT groups, particularly the national Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf and the Deaf GLOW conference.

Of particular interest are a banner with the group's name, a colorful piece of artwork showcasing the group's original logo, and a letter by the donor discussing the history and significance of ARAD.

Dates

Creation: 1979-2010, bulk 1994-2003

Biographical / Historical

The Astro Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf (ARAD) was the Houston, Texas-based chapter of the Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf. After what was originally called the Rainbow Society of the Deaf was founded in 1977, it expanded rapidly, opening chapters in sixteen cities. In the fall of 1979, Bruce Herman circulated a letter among the Houston deaf gay community suggesting they create their own branch of the organization. ARAD was formed on December 7, 1979, as the Rainbow Society of the Deaf's seventeenth chapter, with Herman as its first president.

During its heyday, ARAD acted as a social club for LGBT deaf, organizing parties, trips, and fundraising events for the membership. It also served as a liaison to the larger LGBT deaf community through participation in the national Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf and the Deaf GLOW (Gays and Lesbians of the West) regional group. ARAD was the host organization for Deaf GLOW's 1994 conference. ARAD also participated in the hearing LGBT community through such activities as offering sign language classes and deaf awareness events, encouraging LGBT organizations to provide TDD access, and running a float in Pride parades.

ARAD became less active in the 1990s as interest in social clubs waned and people found newer ways of meeting and socializing online. Despite declining interest and membership, ARAD remained under the management of caretaker officers until 2009, when it was formally closed down after a final banquet to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its founding.

Extent

1.75 Linear Feet (3 document cases, 1 half case)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Records of the Houston, Texas, chapter of the Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf, a social and advocacy group for LGBT deaf people. Includes bylaws, minutes, reports, correspondence, flyers and news clippings, member lists, and more. Also includes some material from the parent organization, the national Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Donated to the Archives by Aaron J. Roupp, January 26, 2010, and recorded as FY10.44.

Separated Materials

Some material from the original ARAD historical collection, including artifacts, photos, and clipping files, was sent to the Gulf Coast Archive and Museum of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender History (gcam.org). The files and photographs are now held by the University of Houston Library in their Special Collections division.