We Are the Rainbow: Stories of Us
Every person carries a piece of history.
Welcome. You are part of this story. We Are the Rainbow is a new LGBTQ+ history, culture, memory, and belonging experience debuting at Bloomington Pride 2026.
Step inside to explore the people, movements, and turning points that have shaped LGBTQ+ life, culture, resistance, joy, and belonging. From legends and icons to legal milestones, community changemakers, and moments of collective resistance—this experience honors the voices, creativity, and courage that built our community. And it invites you to add your own story to the collection.
What You'll Experience
There's no single way to experience We Are the Rainbow. You might read, reflect, listen, write, or share. Everything is optional. Come as you are.
LGBTQ+ History Banners
Move through large-format educational banners exploring LGBTQ+ legends and icons, pivotal civil rights moments, and Minnesota's own changemakers. Discover the people and movements that expanded visibility, challenged oppression, and built community.
Community Reflections
Respond to reflection prompts about what Pride, identity, and belonging mean to you. Read others' responses. All participation is optional and welcomed. Your story matters.
Video Story Capture
A videographer will be present to record your reflections and stories. Share what Pride means to you, a person who influenced you, or a story you want future generations to remember. Completely optional.
Reflection & Connection
Take time to slow down, think, and connect. Read alone. Discuss history with family or friends. Discover something new about LGBTQ+ history and each other.
Featured in the Exhibit
LGBTQ+ Legends & Icons
Discover the artists, activists, and changemakers whose creativity, courage, and visibility helped expand LGBTQ+ representation and culture. From Dusty Springfield and Lesley Gore to Bessie Smith and Joséphine Baker—stories of authenticity, artistry, and resistance.
Civil Rights & Turning Points
Explore pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history, from Baker v. Nelson and the Minnesota Human Rights Act to the Stonewall Uprising and the Compton's Cafeteria Riot. Learn about the legal milestones and collective acts of resistance that moved us forward.
Minnesota Changemakers
Meet the people who shaped LGBTQ+ rights and life in Minnesota. From Representative Karen Clark to Senator Allan Spear to Susan Kimberly—stories of leadership, service, and courage right here at home.
Caregiving & Community Response
Remember the AIDS crisis and the extraordinary courage of those who cared. From chosen family networks to ACT UP activism to the vital role of lesbians as caregivers—stories of survival, mutual aid, and solidarity.
Hidden & Overlooked Stories
Discover the partners, organizers, and everyday people whose contributions have been overlooked, forgotten, or never given a public place to be honored. Stories of "Boston marriages," chosen family, and quiet resistance.
Your Story
You are part of this history. What does Pride mean to you? When have you felt seen or belonged? What story do you want future generations to remember? Your voice matters.
Why We're Creating This
- Help LGBTQ+ people see themselves reflected in history — and know that their stories matter
- Increase understanding of LGBTQ+ rights and culture — beyond what's in textbooks
- Highlight Minnesota's role in LGBTQ+ history — because our story is not just New York or San Francisco
- Preserve community stories — that might otherwise go unrecorded
- Honor people whose contributions have been overlooked — and celebrate their courage
- Build connection and empathy across generations — between elders, adults, youth, and allies
- Demonstrate that LGBTQ+ history is our shared history — part of the story of Minnesota, America, and humanity
Ready to Experience It?
We Are the Rainbow is part of Bloomington Pride 2026. Drop in anytime during festival hours to explore the exhibit, reflect on what Pride means to you, and help preserve our stories for future generations.
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This work is funded in part by MHC with money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.
Learn more about the full Pride celebration
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