Political v straight lesbians
1980
Bridget said “There were two completely
different types of lesbian gathering in Birmingham – the political lesbians and
feminists, and the straight dykes, and at most venues there was a predominance
of one or the other. At the Old Mo there were very few ‘straight dykes’ i.e.
those with no politics”. Bridget didn’t think the political lesbians were into
very overt displays of physical affection. “I can’t imagine someone like Trisha
or Stacey becoming overtly physical unless Stacey was going to smash their face
in. The odd peck on the cheek or holding hands, but nothing more overt than
that”. Barbara said “Overt affection might be seen as somewhat intrusive on
others, therefore not a cool thing to do among the feminists”.
Contributed by: Barbara Carter, 53, Bridget Malin, 62