On EXHIBIT
A Legacy of Love
A Miami Beach exhibition honors the struggles—and resilience—of same-sex couples. By Pam Daniel
I
n 2000, Jerry Chasen and Mark Kirby met at a Miami LGBTQ benefit. But lightning didn’t strike until a few months later when they spotted each other at a club. “We started dancing and realized we moved to the same beat,” says Chasen. The two have been partners on and off the dance floor ever since.
PHOTOGRAPH BY DALE STINE
Chasen, a retired estate planner, life coach and longtime activist and philanthropist for LGBTQ causes, credits their enduring relationship to “a good mix of complementary strengths.” Mark, an interior designer, “is cautious and likes to plan,” says Chasen. “I’m impulsive and will go on instinct.” Maybe even more important, “We still make each other laugh.” Chasen and Kirby are one of 14 couples featured in a new touring exhibition presented by Miami Beach Pride in collaboration with HistoryMiami Museum. “Legacy Couples”
recognizes the love and resilience of same-sex couples, especially those who for many years had to hide their sexual identity and relationships or risk discrimination, job loss and ruptured ties with family and friends. Many lived through the devastation of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and went on to fight for social and legislative equality. “It’s been an amazing ride,” says Chasen. “And let’s be honest. All this did not come without cost. But I’d be hard-pressed to identify any other group that has made the advances the LGBQT community did during our lifetime.” The exhibition, which is supported by a Florida Humanities Community Project Grant, includes a workshop and oral histories. “Legacy Couples Project: 400+Years of LGBTQ+Love” opens April 1 at the Art Deco Museum in Miami Beach. To learn more, go to miamibeachpride.com.
Jerry Chasen and Mark Kirby
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