Before ‘Lawrence’: From Sodomy to Queer Liberation
Wesley G. Phelps’ new history book reveals how gay persecution in the Lone Star State spurred the struggle for LGBTQ+ civil rights nationwide.
Kit OConnell
Kit O’Connell is a genderqueer movement journalist, and Digital Editor at the Texas Observer, who has lived in Texas since 1998. Their citizen journalism during Occupy Wall Street led to Kit becoming an editor at the formative political blog Firedoglake, where they broke the story of Occupy Austin’s infiltration by six undercover Austin police officers who entrapped activists into felony charges. Later, Kit spent four years writing about the hemp and cannabis industry as an editor at Ministry of Hemp and correspondent for Hemp magazine, where they influenced federal policy into giving Western hemp farmers access to water rights and allowing some people with drug convictions to re-enter the industry. Their journalism has also appeared in Truthout, Yes! Magazine, and the Austin Chronicle, among others.
Articles by Kit OConnell
Texas Bookstores Are Writing Their Own Stories
Indie bookshops across the state are embracing change, to thrive and stay alive. But a lot depends on the upcoming holiday season.
Are You OK? The Lives of Young Trans Texans
In Jesse Freidin's photos, viewers glimpse the bravery of transgender youth and the power of unconditional family support.
Texas Butterfly Center Makes a Comeback After Right-Wing Attacks
The wildlife sanctuary’s conservation work has been overshadowed by political drama over its location on the border.
Christofascism Is Everyone’s Problem
The Rev. Dr. Carter Heyward's new book asks white Christians to take responsibility for dismantling America’s oppressive, patriarchal systems.
Dallas’ Gory Punk Scene in Black and White
Vera "Velma" Hernandez brings her fans vivid photos from the heart of the beer- and grime-soaked mosh pit. Now she's taking her act on the road.
Let’s Praise the Bravery of the Sandy Hook Families
“A lot of folks are centering Alex Jones when they should be centering Neil Heslin and Scarlett Lewis.”
There Is No Legitimate ‘Debate’ Over Gender-Affirming Healthcare
A recent New York Times article that experts called inaccurate and unethical now serves as evidence in Texas against transgender kids.
Middle Fingers Up In Austin After End of ‘Roe’
Hundreds took to the streets of Austin after the Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade.
From Pizzagate to Groomergate: Alex Jones Tries to Regain Influence Through Anti-LGBTQ+ Bigotry
‘He’s an elder statesman of bullshit.’