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Saskatchewan Resources for Sexual Diversity
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Manuscript Collections

Manuscript collections are the unpublished papers created or assembled by a person, organization or institution. They can be held by libraries or archives. They can contain correspondence and diaries, minutes and business records, drafts of published works, notes, photographs, posters, etc. Most manuscript collections are physically organized into boxes and folders.

Manuscripts collections usually have finding aids that describe their contents and the order in which they are arranged. The level of description varies, from a general overview to the item specific. Some finding aids only provide a summary of the contents of the collection. Others list the contents of each box and the most detailed will describe each indivdual folder.

VIEW LIST OF AVAILABLE FINDING AIDS

If you wish to look at any of the materials described in the finding aids listed in this site you will need to visit the holding institution. Hours and use policies vary. It is usually a good idea to call ahead before a visit.

Neil Richards Fonds

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Authority Record

 

Individual (PA 277)

 

Richards, Neil, 1949 -

About this records creator:

 

Authorized Heading

Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Biographical Sketch / Administrative History

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s, including the Canadian Gay Archives, the Gay Interest Group of the Canadian Library Association, the Zodiac Friendship Centre and the Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon, the Gay and Lesbian Support Services in Saskatoon, Metamorphosis, and the Saskatchewan Gay Coalition. In 1975, Neil joined others to form the Committee to Defend Doug Wilson. During this struggle, Neil enlisted the support of the University of Saskatchewan's Employees' Union (CUPE Local 1975).  This initiative led to a resolution being passed by the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour asking the government to ban discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Neil helped organize the 1976 convention of the National Gay Rights Coalition in Saskatoon, which was amongst the first significant gay rights gatherings in Canada.  In 1982, Neil took a leave of absence from his position in the University of Saskatchewan and worked as a volunteer with the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives in Toronto. That same year, he co-authored a library selection guide to lesbian and gay fiction, Out on the Shelves.  Neil worked on many of the earliest AIDS awareness initiatives in Saskatchewan. In 1990 he founded and organized Visual AIDS, a month long series of exhibitions, lectures, plays and public events. As well, he has staged three large exhibitions about AIDS at the University of Saskatchewan Library, and was the co-ordinator for Saskatchewan's Day Without Art project in 1992.  Neil's work in the areas of gay rights and AIDS education has not gone unrecognized.  He was awarded the Dr. Stanley Stead Award by Saskatoon District Health for the Visual AIDS project in 1991; he received the first GALA (Gay and Lesbian Achievement) Award for long term service to the lesbian and gay communities in Saskatoon in 1993; he was the first recipient of the University of Saskatchewan’s President's Service Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the learning and working environment at the University of Saskatchewan in 1995; and he was presented with the Doug Wilson Award in 1998 (a University of Saskatchewan award set up to honour those individuals who have shown leadership and courage in advancing the rights of gays and lesbians at the University of Saskatchewan.)

Sources

Old guide GS-170

Website of the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives (http://www.clga.ca/About/NPC/RichardsN-093.htm)

 


Archival records linked to this records creator:                                                       

 

F 413 Neil Richards fonds

 

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Authority Record

 

Corporate (PA 278)

Gay and Lesbian Support Services, 1981-1987


About this records creator:

 

Authorized Heading

Gay and Lesbian Support Services, 1981 – 1987

Biographical Sketch / Administrative History

Gay and Lesbian Support Services (GLSS) was established in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in 1981 by lesbians and gay men who wanted to work together to create a healthy, happy, and supportive community. Its objectives were: to establish and operate an anonymous, confidential telephone listening and information service; to provide training for phone line counselors to ensure that they were capable and competent; to develop and provide support for self-help and support groups; to provide support and developmental expertise to persons within the community who wished to form independent organizations to meet the needs of the lesbian  and gay community; to provide professional counselling (and/or referrals) to persons in distress, when requested; to provide meeting space for community organizations, self-help and support groups; and to network with other gay and non-gay organizations and professionals to provide better services to the gay and lesbian community as well as their families and friends.  GLSS ceased operations in 1987.

Sources

Old guide GS-170

 


Archival records linked to this records creator:                                                       

 

F143 Neil Richards fonds

 

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Authority Record

 

Corporate (PA 279)

Saskatchewan Gay Coalition, 1977 – 198-


About this records creator:

 

Authorized Heading

Saskatchewan Gay Coalition, 1977 – 198-

Biographical Sketch / Administrative History

The Saskatchewan Gay Coalition was organized in 1977 by a group of lesbians and gay men who came together to work for the liberation of homosexuals in society. Their objectives were: to oppose all forms of discrimination against gay men and lesbians; to oppose all forms of discrimination against all women; to foster the growth of gay community on a province-wide basis; and to articulate their lifestyle to the general public and to raise consciousness within their own community. Believing that no single gay community could achieve liberation in isolation while others remained oppressed, the different gay communities decided to work together as a coalition.

 

Sources

Old guide GS-170

 


Archival records linked to this records creator:                                                       

 

F 413 Neil Richards fonds

 

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Authority Record

 

Corporate (PA 280)

Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon, 1972 - 1984


About this records creator:

 

Authorized Heading

Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon, 1972 - 1984

Biographical Sketch / Administrative History

The Zodiac Friendship Society was incorporated in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan , in 1972. The objects of the Society were: a) to promote educational, cultural, athletic and community endeavors, for the homosexual community; b) to utilize all available club and private facilities for the encouragement of the aforementioned objects; c) to promote and provide educational, recreational and athletic facilities for the use and benefit of the members and of the community at large; d) to take an active interest in the civic, commercial, social and moral welfare of the community at large; e) to unite the members in the bonds of friendship, fellowship and mutual understanding; and f) to provide a forum and facilities for the full and free discussions of all matters of public interest.  On January 1, 1975, the Zodiac Friendship Society was joined with an organization called Saskatoon Gay Action to form the Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon.  The objects of the Gay Community Centre were identical to those of the Zodiac Friendship Society, except that they also sought to serve the needs and interests of the homosexual community by:  providing education, cultural and social activities; providing counseling and aid services; providing a voice for the gay community in society at large; and by working for social change.  The Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon ceased operations in 1984.

Predecessor(s)

Zodiac Friendship Society

Saskatoon Gay Action

Sources

Old guide GS-170

 


Archival records linked to this records creator:                                                       

 

F 413 Neil Richards fonds

 

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Authority Record

 

Corporate (PA 281)

Gay and Lesbian Health Services, 1991 -


About this records creator:

 

Authorized Heading

Gay and Lesbian Health Services, 1991 -

Biographical Sketch / Administrative History

Gay and Lesbian Health Services is a gay/lesbian/bisexual /transsexual health organization serving central and northern Saskatchewan.  It provides support and counseling services, an information line, library, resources and referrals, speakers, professional training, and social groups such as the Out & Proud Youth group, Men's Club, Women's Discussion group, Spirituality Discussion group, Gay & Lesbian Parents group, 2-Spirit Circle of Friends. GLHS provides social & recreational activities and the Safe Schools Project. GLHS also operates the Out of The Closet Boutique, which sells a variety of queer merchandise.

Sources

Gay and Lesbian Health Services Website: http://www.glhs.ca

Gay Canada Saskatoon: http://saskatoon.gaycanada.com/

 


Archival records linked to this records creator:                                                       

 

 

F 413 Neil Richards fonds

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Authority Record

 

Corporate (PA 282)

Metamorphosis, 1978-1989 (conference)


About this records creator:

 

Authorized Heading

Metamorphosis, 1978-1989 (conference)

Biographical Sketch / Administrative History

Metamorphosis was referred to as "a prairie celebration of lesbians and gay men." At the Prairie Gay Conference of 1977 it was decided that a major prairie gay cultural event should be held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in the fall of 1978. The Saskatchewan Gay Coalition hosted the first event on the Thanksgiving weekend, October 7-9, 1978.  The 1978 brochure explained the event's name:  "Metamorphosis according to one definition is a change in form by magic or natural development perhaps best exemplified by the transitions experienced in the development of the butterfly. Metamorphosis and the butterfly motif seem ideal as a metaphor for our continuing growth and coming out as individuals and as a gay community."  The first organizers hoped that Metamorphosis would provide the gay community an opportunity to present itself to the larger community in a very positive, highly visible way, while bringing the gay community together to celebrate its richness and variety of individuals and lifestyles through cultural expression. Metamorphosis continued as an annual event until 1989, and was always held on the Thanksgiving weekend in Saskatoon. The event usually included:  continuous entertainment workshops (music, dance, theatre, writing); displays (art, photography, crafts, books); entertainment such as juggles, clowns, and fortune tellers; coffee houses; concerts; and a parade or march.

Sources

Old guide GS-170

 


Archival records linked to this records creator:                                                       

 

F 413 Neil Richards fonds

 

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413

 

Neil Richards fonds

 


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Dates of Creation

1957-2004

Dates of Accumulation

1957-2004

Physical Description

16.38 m textual

171 photographs

61 posters

54 pins and buttons

4 audiotapes

2 videotapes

1 cloth banner

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:

Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 14 accessions between 1985 and 2004: S85-189 (October 11, 1985), S86-113 (June 4, 1986), S89-59 (July 25, 1989), S89-117 (November 27, 1989), S92-56 (August 18, 1992), S94-93 (December 16, 1994), S95-23 (April 25, 1995), S97-59 (July 14, 1997), S99-69 (October 27, 1999), S2002-43 (August 8, 2002), S2004-35 (July 19, 2004), S2004-39 (August 9, 2004), S2004-48 (September 7, 2004) and S2004-59 (November 12, 2004).

Custodial History

Records of the Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon and the Gay and Lesbian Support Services organizations were donated to Neil Richards when these organizations ceased operations.  Neil Richards donated these records to the Saskatoon office of Saskatchewan Archives in one accession on December 16, 1994 (S94-93).

Scope and Content

This fonds consists of records created, accumulated and used by Neil Richards during his active involvement in gay organizations in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and Canada-wide.  The fonds also reflects Richards active interest in collecting the documentary heritage of the homosexual community locally, provincially, and nationally.  The types of records included are photocopies of newspaper clippings, publications, subject files, minutes, correspondence, reports, financial statements, membership lists, counselling logs, newsletters, videotapes, audiotapes, posters, photographs, buttons and a cloth banner.

The fonds consists of thirteen series:  Newspaper Clippings; Publications; Pornography; Subject Files; Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon; Gay and Lesbian Support Services; Saskatchewan Gay Coalition; Metamorphosis; Sound Recordings; Posters; Photographs; Ephemera; and Gay and Lesbian Health Services. 

Access Restrictions

These records are subject to access restrictions according to the terms of an agreement with the donor dated December 22, 1994.  Please consult reference archivist for assistance.

Terms Governing Use

Use, publication and/or reproduction of records are subject to terms and conditions of the Copyright Act.

Reference Tools

SAFA 198 (old guide GS-170) includes fonds and series descriptions and file level listings.

 

Physical Condition note

Records are in good physical condition.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Content of the fonds.

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 595, S-A 821, S-A 875, S-A 958, S-A 1026, S-A 1067, Tapes S-1145, 1146, 1544, 1545, S-B 13384-13514, S-E 236-276

Consulting the Records

 

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original order has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-1

Newspaper Clippings series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Newspaper Clippings series

Dates of Creation

1954, 1966-2004

Physical Description

2.59 m textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:

Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 11 accessions between 1986 and 2004: S86-113 (June 4, 1986), S89-59 (July 25, 1989), S92-56 (August 18, 1992), S94-93 (December 16, 1994), S97-59 (July 14, 1997), S99-69 (October 27, 1999), S2002-43 (August 8, 2002), S2004-35 (July 19, 2004), S2004-39 (August 9, 2004), S2004-48 (September 7, 2004) and S2004-59 (November 12, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of photocopies of newspaper clippings, taken mainly from Saskatchewan daily papers, which relate to homosexuals, homosexuality, and the gay liberation movement.  A minority of the clippings pertain specifically to Saskatchewan and document provincial events such as the 1978 visit of Anita Bryant to Moose Jaw, and allegations made by members of the Progressive Conservative Party of Saskatchewan of homosexuality in the New Democratic Party Government of Premier Allan Blakeney.  Many of the newspaper articles covered by the clippings were taken by Saskatchewan newspaper editors from national and international wire services, and, therefore, do not always pertain directly to Saskatchewan events or concerns.  This material documents the representation of homosexuals in the media, and it provides evidence of changing and fixed social attitudes towards homosexuality in Canada and abroad. 

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series.

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 595, S-A 821, S-A 875, S-A 958, S-A 1026, S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The newspaper clippings were originally filed in chronological order by the donor, and this arrangement has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-2

Publications series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Publications series

Dates of Creation

1964 – 2004

Physical Description

5.66 m textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 8 accessions between 1986 and 1999), S86-113 (June 4, 1986), S89-59 (July 25, 1989), S89-117 (November 27, 1989),, S94-93 (December 16, 1994), S95-23 (April 25, 1995), S97-59 (July 14, 1997), S99-69 (October 27, 1999), and S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of publications such as pamphlets, newsletters, flyers and programmes documenting homosexual activities, issues and interests in Saskatchewan and across Canada in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.  Gay and lesbian political, social, and religious organizations from across Canada are represented, but the largest amount of material is from Western Canada and Ontario.  Saskatchewan organizations are particularly well-documented, including:  the Community Women's Centre (Regina), Gay Academic Union, Gay and Lesbian Services, Zodiac Friendship Centre / Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon, Gay Community Centre of Regina, Gay Saskatchewan, Gaymates, Grapevine, Lambda Sports Group, Metamorphosis, and the Saskatchewan Gay Coalition.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series.

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 595, S-A 821, S-A 958, S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of the publications, in alphabetical order based on the organization name or the publication title, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-3

Pornography series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Pornography series

Dates of Creation

1962 – 1986

Physical Description

2 m textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 1 accession 1994: S94-93 (December 16, 1994).  Three magazines were received in 2004: S2004-39 (August 9, 2004) and added to the series.

Scope and Content

This series consists of a selection of homosexual soft-core pornography magazines from the 1970s and 1980s, as well as issues of Face and Physique Annual and Physique Illustrated from the 1960s. These magazines were purchased legally in local confectionaries and book stores in Saskatchewan, and were gathered by the donor from friends and colleagues.  The donor had a specific purpose when he included these magazines with the collection: they provided a source of positive cultural and political validation for homosexual males, particularly in often-oppressive, generally isolated prairie settings. Some of these magazines also provide an interesting illustration of Canadian censorship practices as they pertain to issues surrounding homosexuality. Researchers interested in further information about homosexual pornography or censorship might also want to consult  File III. 80. Pornography, in the Subject Files series of this collection.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series.

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A821

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of the publications, in alphabetical order based on the organization name or the publication title, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-4

Subject File series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Subject File series

Dates of Creation

1964 – 2004

Physical Description

2.25 m textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 2 accessions in 1994 and 2004: S94-93 (December 16, 1994) and S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of files created by Neil Richards about various subjects pertaining to homosexuality, covering the years 1964-1994. The files include correspondence, publications, newspaper clippings, and miscellaneous materials pertaining to each subject.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 821, S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of the subject files, in alphabetical order based on subject, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F413-5

Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon series

Dates of Creation

1971 – 1993

Physical Description

74 cm textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

 

On January 1, 1975, the Zodiac Friendship Society was joined with an organization called Saskatoon Gay Action to form the Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon.  The objects of the Gay Community Centre were to serve the needs and interests of the homosexual community by:  providing education, cultural and social activities; providing counselling and aid services; providing a voice for the gay community in society at large; and by working for social change.  The Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon ceased operations in 1987.

 

See also:

Richards, Neil, 1949-

Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon, 1972 – 1974

Custodial History

The records in this series were donated to Neil Richards when the Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon ceased operations.  Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in two accessions in 1994 and 2004: S94-93 (December 16, 1994) and S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of the records of the Zodiac Friendship Society, which amalgamated with an organization called Saskatoon Gay Action to become the Gay Community Centre of Saskatoon, for the years 1971-1984.  The records include minutes of the Board of Directors and for General Meetings, correspondence, reports, financial statements, membership lists, counselling logs, and subject files relevant to the operation of these organizations.

Access Restrictions

These records are subject to access restrictions according to the terms of an agreement with the donor dated December 22, 1994.  Please consult reference archivist for assistance.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Accruals

No further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 821, S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files, in alphabetical order based on file title, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-6

Gay and Lesbian Support Services series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Gay and Lesbian Support Services series

Dates of Creation

1981 – 1987

Physical Description

8 cm textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

 

Gay and Lesbian Support Services (GLSS) was established in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in 1981 by lesbians and gay men who wanted to work together to create a healthy, happy, and supportive community.  GLSS ceased operations in 1987.

See also:

Richards, Neil, 1949 –

Gay and Lesbian Support Services, 1981 - 1987

Custodial History

The records in this series were donated to Neil Richards when Gay and Lesbian Support Services ceased operations.  Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 2 accessions in 1994 and 2004: S94-93 (December 16, 1994) and S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of records of the records of Gay and Lesbian Support Services for the years 1981-1987.  The records include minutes of the Board of Directors, counseling logs, correspondence, and various subject files pertaining to the operation and work of the organization.

Access Restrictions

These records are subject to access restrictions according to the terms of an agreement with the donor dated December 22, 1994.  Please consult reference archivist for assistance.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

No further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series.

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 821, S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files, in alphabetical order based on file title, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-7

Saskatchewan Gay Coalition series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Saskatchewan Gay Coalition series

Dates of Creation

1977 – 1982

Physical Description

22 cm textual records

2 videotapes

1 cloth banner

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

The Saskatchewan Gay Coalition was organized in 1977 by a group of lesbians and gay men who came together to work for the liberation of homosexuals in society. Believing that no single gay community could achieve liberation in isolation while others remained oppressed, the different gay communities decided to work together as a coalition.

See also:

Richards, Neil, 1949 –

Saskatchewan Gay Coalition, 1977 – 198-

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 1 accession in 1994: S94-93 (December 16, 1994).

Custodial History

The videotapes and other unidentified materials in this series were given to Neil Richards by Doug Wilson, one of the founders of the Saskatchewan Gay Coalition.

Scope and Content

This series consists of records of the Saskatchewan Gay Coalition for the years 1977-1982.  The series consists of correspondence, newsletters, subject files, a videotape, and a cloth banner.  The videotape was produced in 1978 by Saskatoon members of the Coalition, under the auspices of the Saskatchewan Association on Human Rights in collaboration with CPN Saskatoon. The videotape appears to have been prompted by the scheduled  appearance of American singer and antigay activist Anita Bryant at an evangelical meeting in Moose Jaw on Dominion Day, 1978. At the time, Bryant was the most prominent spokesperson in the American antigay movement, having led a highly publicized and successful drive to overturn a gay rights ordinance in her home community of Dade County, Florida.   The banner which is included in this series can be seen on the videotape.

Access Restrictions

Some of the records in this series are subject to access restrictions according to the terms of an agreement with the donor dated December 22, 1994.  Please consult reference archivist for assistance.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

No further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 821

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files, in alphabetical order based on file title, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-8

Metamorphosis series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Metamorphosis series

Dates of Creation

1978 – 1989

Physical Description

17.5 cm textual records

11 posters

2 audiotapes

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

Metamorphosis was "a prairie celebration of lesbians and gay men."  At the Prairie Gay Conference of 1977 it was decided that a major prairie gay cultural event should be held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in the fall of 1978. The Saskatchewan Gay Coalition hosted the first event on the Thanksgiving weekend, October 7-9, 1978.  Metamorphosis continued as an annual event until 1989, and was always held on the Thanksgiving weekend in Saskatoon. The event usually included:  continuous entertainment workshops (music, dance, theatre, writing); displays (art, photography, crafts, books); entertainment such as juggles, clowns, and fortune tellers; coffee houses; concerts; and a parade or march.

See also:

Richards, Neil, 1949-

Metamorphosis, 1978-1989 (conference)

Custodial History

The records of the Metamorphosis planning committees were donated to Neil Richards to add to his fonds.  Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 3 accessions from 1985 to 2004: S85-189 (October 11, 1985), S94-93 (December 16, 1994) and S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of: the working files of Metamorphosis planning committees from 1978-1989; copies of posters which advertised the Metamorphosis events over the years; and two audiotapes of a panel discussion on the history of homosexuality in Saskatchewan at the Metamorphosis Conference, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, October 12, 1985.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

No further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series.

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 821, S-A 1067, Tape S-1544, and Tape S-1545

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files, in chronological order, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-9

Sound Recordings series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Sound Recordings series

Dates of Creation

1987

Physical Description

2 audiotapes

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 1 accession in 1994: S94-93 (December 16, 1994).

Scope and Content

This series consists of two audiotapes of recordings from the conference of the Victorious Women of Canada in 1987. The recordings include the opening address made to this conference by Dr. Alex Kindy, M.P., as well as a panel of speakers discussing sexual orientation.  Victorious Women of Canada (VWC) was a women’s organization formed by Gay Caswell of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in May of 1987.  VWC described itself as a pro-family group with Judeo-Christian values.  The group was anti-feminist, pro-life, anti-gay, and opposed universal day care, pay equity and affirmative action.  Members supported free enterprise and the safeguarding of family incomes.  Although it is not clear when VWC was dissolved, there are few references to its activities after 1988.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

Tape S-1145 and 1146

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files, in numerical order, has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-10

Poster series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Poster series

Dates of Creation

1975 – 2004

Physical Description

61 posters

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 2 accession in 1994 and 2004: S94-93 (December 16, 1994) and S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of 61 posters advertising events and conferences of homosexual organizations, films, as well as AIDS awareness.  Many of the posters advertise Saskatchewan events or were distributed by Saskatchewan organizations; one advertises an event in the United States; the remainder advertise events in eastern Canada.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 821, S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-11

Photograph series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Photograph series

Dates of Creation

[1970?] – 2001

Physical Description

171 photographs

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 2 accessions in 2004: S2004-39 (August 9, 2004) and S2004-48 (September 7, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of 171 photographs which document gay and lesbian organizations in Saskatchewan and activities from the mid 1970’s to the early 2000’s.  This series contains images of protests, rallies, displays, conferences and buildings that were common sites for gay and lesbian gatherings.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-B 13384-13514; S-E 236-276

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-12

Ephemera series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Ephemera series

Dates of Creation

[1970?] – 2004

Physical Description

54 pins and buttons

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 -

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 1 accession in 2004: S2004-48 (September 7, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of pins and buttons of gay and lesbian organizations and events in Saskatchewan and throughout Canada from the 1970’s to 2004.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files has been maintained.

 

Saskatchewan Archives Board

Records Description

 

F 413-13

Gay and Lesbian Health Services series


About these records:

 

Title of Records: Fonds

Neil Richards fonds

Title of Records: Series

Gay and Lesbian Health Services series

Dates of Creation

1992 – 1993

Physical Description

2 cm textual records

Link to Authority

Neil Richards was born on May 11, 1949, in Bowmanville, Ontario. He attended public school in that community, took a Bachelor of Arts degree at Carleton University in Ottawa, and enrolled in the Library Science program at the University of Toronto. In 1971, Richards moved to Saskatoon and began work as a library assistant at the University of Saskatchewan Library, where he was employed until his early retirement in 2002.  Richards has been active in local, provincial and national gay organizations since the 1970s.

Gay and Lesbian Health Services is a gay/lesbian/bisexual/ transsexual health organization serving central and northern Saskatchewan.  It provides support and counseling services, an information line, library, resources and referrals, speakers, professional training, and social groups.  Queer Youth of Saskatoon was a social group for homosexual teenagers/young adults in the early 1990’s that was run under the auspices of Gay and Lesbian Health Services.

See also:
Richards, Neil, 1949 –

Gay and Lesbian Health Services, 1991-

Direct Acquisition from Records Creator

Neil Richards donated records for this series to the Saskatoon office, Saskatchewan Archives in 1 accession in 2004: S2004-39 (August 9, 2004).

Scope and Content

This series consists of meeting minutes, correspondence, constitution, policy and procedures, contact lists and reference material for Queer Youth Support of Saskatoon.

Access Restrictions

Records are open for research use.

Terms Governing Use

See fonds level.

Reference Tools

See fonds level.

Physical Condition note

See fonds level.

Accruals

Further accruals are expected.

Source of Description

Contents of the series

Notes

Location for retrieval:  Saskatoon-Murray.

Former Codes

S-A 1067

Consulting the Records

To consult the records visit or contact the Saskatoon office.

Arrangement Note(s)

The donor’s original arrangement of these files has been maintained.