Among pioneering Canadian activists we have researched, the one who stands out most for sheer pluck is James Egan (1921 - 2000). Remarkably, way back in 1949 — at a time when no one else would even dare — he began a letter-writing campaign to publications, protesting their representations of gays and lesbians. Egan had no reservations about taking on the establishment. As he later put it, “[I] was not going to sit by and let them get away with what I considered to be gross inaccuracies and libels.” With nothing other than the courage of his convictions to back him up, he set an outstanding example of the power of the pen. What we found most striking amongst Egan’s records was a pile of typed, hand-signed correspondence he received from editors of Esquire, Ladies’ Home Journal, Maclean’s and Time. Poring through them, we were really impressed by the gutsiness he demonstrated by writing to such prominent publications. We were equally impressed by the fact that Egan received what were by and large respectful and well-considered replies to a topic that was then such a taboo. At Egan’s insistence, these publications demonstrated a willingness to at least debate an issue that most of society considered off limits for discussion. The letters also provide an interesting window into a simpler era. Who could imagine today writing in as an unknown and receiving personal replies from senior journalists at such blue-chip publications? In one letter we found dating from 1950, an editor from Esquire wrote to Egan thanking him for his letter in which he outlined concerns about the magazine’s portrayals of homosexuality. The editor stated, “Whether or not everyone agrees with us is of small importance when we realize that a great many people have started thinking about a subject that has long been shrouded by convention.” Egan was not satisfied by this reply, which others might have timidly accepted as progress. Demonstrating his feisty nature, he scribbled the following in the letter’s margin: “Better, almost, to be shrouded by convention then the drivel published by Esquire.” One of the more amusing exchanges involves one of Canada’s most venerable authors, journalists, and TV personalities. In 1963, Pierre Burton who was then editor of Maclean’s, raised Egan’s ire by stating in a broadcast that the “high prevalence of homo sexual [sic] male ballet dancers [has] made our ballet somewhat less effective.” Burton defended his stance, writing to Egan “There’s no doubt in my mind and in the minds of many [others] that this is a problem directly affecting the art of the ballet.” Here was a man who was celebrated as a great intellect and trusted commentator. He was also known for defending homosexuals against bigoted attacks. Nevertheless, even he could not always separate bias from basis in fact. In 1964, Egan played a key role in Maclean’s publishing the first article by Canadian mainstream press that took a generally positive view of homosexuality. In 1996, he and his life-long partner Jack Nesbit played a decisive role in nationally outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation. For more on this remarkable couple read Challenging the Conspiracy of Silence by Egan, James, and McLeod, Donald W. A copy is available at the CLGA’s library. | |
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The following blogs provide vivid accounts of discrimination perpetrated against people in Canada whose sexual identities did not conform to standards of the day. In equal measure, they provide stirring anecdotes about brave individuals who — in the face of overwhelming oppression — challenged ignorance and injustice. Archives
March 2015
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