News Summary
In St. Petersburg, a group of local students has initiated ‘The Sapphic Sun,’ a monthly newspaper aimed at amplifying queer voices in the Tampa Bay area. With a unique blend of entertainment and education, the publication provides content ranging from horoscopes to serious discussions about LGBTQ+ issues. Founded by Kelly Dunsmore and edited by Valerie Smith, the newspaper embraces traditional print methods while fostering community engagement through open calls for contributions. It’s not just about fun stories; it’s about creating a space for crucial conversations within the queer community.
St. Petersburg, Florida
A group of local students has launched “The Sapphic Sun,” a monthly lesbian and queer newspaper, which debuted in October 2024. This new publication aims to amplify community voices within the Tampa Bay area, providing a platform for both light-hearted and serious content relevant to the queer community.
The inception of “The Sapphic Sun” took place during a brainstorming session in a living room in Roser Park, led by founder and creative director Kelly Dunsmore, age 24. Valerie Smith, age 23, serves as the editor-in-chief. Together, they have crafted a publication that aims to balance entertainment with education, targeting younger queer individuals who may be seeking further knowledge about their community and its history.
The newspaper features a diverse array of articles, including horoscopes, tarot tips, and disaster date stories, alongside more serious discussions about current issues such as trans civil rights and healthcare access for queer individuals. A unique column titled “Ask a Dyke” offers advice on topics related to sex and sexuality, encouraging community engagement and openness.
The visual aesthetic of “The Sapphic Sun” fuses old-school print styles with Florida’s vibrant kitsch culture, showcased through bold illustrations and engaging layouts. The publication utilizes a Risograph printer located at Print St. Pete, a community letterpress in Gulfport, to produce its issues, emphasizing a commitment to traditional print methods in a digital age.
Each month, the publication announces a specific theme through its Instagram page, inviting contributions from the community in various forms, including drawings and poetry. This inclusive approach not only promotes local talent but also fosters a sense of belonging within the queer community.
Issues of “The Sapphic Sun” are available for $10, with subscription options for those wishing to receive copies delivered either within Florida or across the United States. For those who cannot afford a subscription, past issues can be accessed at no cost at the Gulfport Library and Creative Pinellas’ zine library.
In light of ongoing challenges to queer representation and discussions in Florida, Dunsmore has emphasized the importance of maintaining an independent media outlet. The publication addresses the rising censorship concerns faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the state, creating a crucial space for discussions that may otherwise go unheard.
The community can look forward to an upcoming event titled “Heresies: Art, Politics & Intersectionality,” scheduled to take place at the Museum of Fine Arts on July 25. This event will highlight the work of artist Nina Yankowitz, further emphasizing the intersection of art, politics, and community engagement.
As a grassroots initiative, “The Sapphic Sun” embodies the spirit of collaboration and creativity through its open call for community submissions, urging individuals to be part of a shared narrative. By addressing both fun and significant issues facing the queer community, the publication not only entertains but educates its readers, filling a necessary gap in local queer history and contemporary discussions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
The Sapphic Sun: A New Voice for Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ Community
Additional Resources
- St. Pete Rising: First Pop-Up Lesbian Bar Debuts
- Wikipedia: LGBT Culture in the United States
- St. Pete Rising: Launch of The Sapphic Sun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: LGBT Rights
- St. Pete Rising: Community Engagement Events
