By Meg Hughes, Curator of Archives, The Valentine

The Valentine's current photography exhibition asks visitors to consider what it means to be a family. Developed in collaboration with Richmond Region Tourism's OutRVA campaign and photographer Michael Simon, One Love: LGBT Families features contemporary photographic portraits of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) families from the Richmond metropolitan region.

The concept of family within the LGBT community has historically and, out of necessity, been flexible. After coming out, many LGBT individuals are ostracized from their family and friends. However, everyone needs love, and the LGBT community has been actively creating support networks for decades.

The legal landscape has changed dramatically for LGBT families since the early 2000s, when states began to pass legislation recognizing same-sex couples. Virginia legalized same-sex marriage in 2014, and the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark Obergefell v. Hodges decision (2015) recognizes a constitutional right for same-sex couples to marry. LGBT families are now beginning to have greater access to the legal options available for major life events - getting married, having kids and preparing for the future.

One Love: LGBT Families is on view December 1, 2016-September 4, 2017, in the Valentine's Lower Level.

Opening Reception
Wed., Jan. 11, 2017, 6 - 8 PM
at The Valentine, 1015 E. Clay Street, Richmond, VA

Click to RSVP by January 4, or call (804) 649-0711 ext. 339
Limited parking available. Carpooling encouraged.

This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of Altria Group, Capital One, Virginia is for Lovers and Diversity Richmond.