January 31, 2026 – EXISTENCE = RESISTANCE, Presented by One Institute’s Youth Ambassadors for Queer History

In 1987, six gay activists created a poster with a pink upward-facing triangle above the words SILENCE = DEATH to incite political action in the face of government neglect that fueled the HIV/AIDS crisis. Swiftly adopted by ACT UP, this poster— which reclaimed the pink triangle used as a Nazi-era badge of shame for homosexuals— became a timeless symbol of LGBTQ+ resistance, liberation, and pride.

Inspired by this movement, EXISTENCE = RESISTANCE exhibits the creative archival research projects of One Institute’s 2025-26 Youth Ambassadors for Queer History: Adelaide, Alexa A., Alexa M., Amaris, Hay, Ilse, Lucy, Olga, Seogene, Venezia, Victoria, and Zacharie. Our Youth Ambassadors apply their study of history to illustrate that queer and trans existence has always been a form of resistance. From Latine activism and drag kings, to the punk music scene and lesbian social networks, their work reflects on political and cultural resistance of the past to understand LGBTQ+ rights and responsibilities in the present.

The opening reception of this exhibition will take place at One Gallery in West Hollywood on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 3 to 5 PM. Parking is available at the West Hollywood Park Five-Story Garage and can be validated for one hour in the first floor office.

At 3:15 PM, there will be a brief presentation and scholarship ceremony where students will be honored and reflect on their experience in the program. For our remaining time together, attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments, be in community, and view students’ projects on display.

Special thanks to Peta Lindsay; Craig Loftin; Elodie Hekimian-brogan; Ariel Bustamante, Zach Davidson, Matt Richter, and the LA LGBT Center; Holly M. Crawford, Kidogo Kennedy, and LACMA; Andy Campbell; Armani Dae; Joey Terrill; Rob Saltzman; Loni Shibuyama, Bud Thomas, and ONE Archives; the City of West Hollywood; and our incredible co-educators, Solange Agüero, Mica Andy, Jon Burkart, and Rory Hayes.

This program is made possible through the generous support of Dwight Stuart Youth Fund, Los Angeles County Third District Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, and Uptown Gay & Lesbian Alliance.

This program and event is organized by Trevor Ladner, Director of Education Programs at One Institute. Please contact Trevor at [email protected] with any questions.

Image credit: Promotional image by One Institute, inspired by The SILENCE = DEATH Project poster, 1987.