Whether you love history, free speech or the Liberty Bell, Philly is calling this summer. “Speaking Out for Equality” at the National Constitution Center (www.constitutioncenter.org) traces the legal and personal struggles of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in America. In six sections, exhibits show how fear and intimidation drove many LGBT people to become “invisible.” Artifacts show how careers could be short-circuited if a person was “outed.” “Frank Kameny, 1957: A Fired Government Employee Challenges the Status Quo” explains the Lavender Scare, when government workers could be fined over suspicions of homosexuality. Kameny was an up-and-coming astronomer who took his case to the Supreme Court after being fired. The rise of gay activism in the 1960s and current issues are highlighted. The exhibition runs through Jan. 3 and is included with the price of admission. Adult admission is $14.50, with discounts for students and seniors.
Gardner is a freelance writer.
