The archive project I chose to explore is ACT UP / Los Angeles records. I wanted to explore this online collection because I had previously taken the course WL ARTS 1, which we had to curate an imagery exhibition to raise awareness for AIDS, I am interested to see how this archive will approach the topic of AIDS.
The project AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power/Los Angeles is active from 1987 to 1995. Using the strategy of non-violent protests, the grassroot organization is dedicated to improve and create positive changes of AIDs in local and federal government. The online collection contains minutes, press releases, membership materials, newsletter and much more. Base on the information in administrative history, the organization met for the first time on December 4, 1987, in West Hollywood, the members strive to improve living situation for AIDS patients, for example, they focused on improving AIDS healthcare services and attempt to draw media attention about AIDS. Members of the organization were given civil disobedience training and duty include tracking confrontations and arrests.
The history narratives document several events such as the 1989 incident when ACT UP/LA demand the LA County Hospital to add available beds dedicated to AIDS patient through a week long vigil outside the hospital. In addition, the vigil then became an inspired for an extended campaign. The organization was also supported by the LGBTQ community. The organization has made positive changes in the life of those who suffer AIDS in the LGBTQ community and gave the community a safe environment in the Los Angeles area.
The viewers are able to access through and understand the history of the organization, the goal, and their duty. It is interesting to understand the transformation in attitude and supporter’s approach from the 1900’s, the online collection not only document the information about this organization, but it also reveals the changes surround the issue of AIDS throughout the years.
The archive may strengthen its context by including more information about the process of building the organization. As many classmates have also mentioned in their blog, it is interesting if the collection could include a comparison of the AIDS community before ACT UP/LA and the community after. This could highlight the improvement or any changes the organization has brought to the people. In addition, it is also effective if the collection could provide the methods or ways of how its members interact with each group of people who suffer from AIDS.