Renaissance of Madison was Madison's equivalent of Milwaukee's 'Gay People's Union' (GPU). The organization provided a community center and health testing center, and published a newsletter for some years (although the Renaissance newsletter was smaller and less widely circulated than the 'GPU News'.)

We have not yet ascertained exactly what years the organization was active. The newsletter of October 1975 included a Treasurer's Report which states that "This is the first year of operation. Operation did not start until October, 1974". However a mention in the May 1976 issue of the newsletter states "Over the past five years Renaissance has established a foundation of valuable, permanent services for the Madison community", which implies the organization was founded as early as 1971.

And the organization appears to have been active only in the Madison area. While the 'GPU News' listed the organization and Gay V.D. Clinic as being at 913 Spring Street in their resource guide from November 1975 to January 1981 (never earlier), the group was never mentioned or listed in resource guides of statewide LGBT periodicals that began publishing in the early to mid-1980s-- such as Wisconsin's Escape magazine (starting in 1982), In Step magazine (starting in 1984), or Wisconsin Light newspaper (starting in 1987).

Obviously, further research to narrow down the period of the organization's existence is needed.

The major portion of our knowledge of the organization is from the collection of newsletters donated by contributor Richard O. and presented below, which range from February 1975 to February 1978. Additional issues and an outline of the group's history is welcome from anyone with that knowledge.

However from these newsletters it is apparent that Renaissance of Madison made the typical mistake of over estimating their ability to raise funds, making investments in rentable space and paying staff salaries which were not always sustainable. It is apparent from newsletters that monthly income often fell significantly short of paying overhead costs. This may have led to the organization's ultimate failure to survive.

The November 1977 issue of their newsletter sums up part of the problem. It states: "ADVERTISING POLICY- In case you didn't notice, this is a landmark issue of the Renaissance Newsletter. We now accept display advertising and classified ads. The reason we decided to make this change is two-fold. First, we need the money since personal donations have practically stopped. We have given up hope for tax exempt status since the IRS is so blatently anti-gay. Second, the newsletter hasn't been published since March, except for a one page shot in June. Advertising income encourages regular publication for revenue and the additional revenue allows for a more sophisticated newsletter involving more staff and higher production quality."

The following general information is taken from the organization's informational flyer distributed in February 1975:

RENAISSANCE is a Madison based, non-profit, service oriented organization whose purpose is to raise money for gay community projects and services. Currently, these range from peer group counseling services, to a VD Clinic and a Speaker and Panel Bureau. Renaissance is the organization responsible for the Coordinator's salary. The Board is composed of members of the community who are willing and interested in promoting a positive and integrative concept of and for gay people.

Each month the Coordinator publishes a newsletter which is mailed to those who support the goals and means of Renaissance.

(see rainbow-inspired 'GAY' LOGO)


This graphic symbol has been chosen to represent a multi-colored rainbow and the many and varied aspects of life open to those who accept it, or, it represents a sunrise which dawns on those who come to truly accept themselves as they are, or...

It will be used to signal the activities and projects of RENAISSANCE OF MADISON, INC.

The GAY CENTER serves as an office, meeting place, phone service, periodical library, etc. for the various organizations and services which are currently utilizing the CENTE R's space. Because of the limited hours of operation it is best to call ahead for an appointment, or, if you are interested in just dropping in, call ahead to make certain someone will be there.

PEER GROUP COUNSELING

Providing free peer group alternative counseling services has led to some misunderstanding. Many people believe that counseling is only for the very disturbed. A person may feel lonely or isolated and have trouble making friends. He or she may be married or in a relationship where communication is difficult.

These feelings may not be very intense, but are uncomfortable and could possibly be dealt with or talked about. As the motto says, a person does not have to be "sick," but with improved patterns of communication a good situation or relationship can become even better. So too with any type of problem situation. A chance to talk it out with someone can often be the move that leads to a new period of growth.

Another important part of our work is in the appropriate resources that would best help a person with his problems. When we first see someone we take a good look at what is happening and look for the best possible way to help that person—it may be by talking to one of our counselors, or involvement with a group, or by letting them know about other resources within the community.

Please feel free to give us a call—we will be glad to set up an appointment with you. Staff members are available to professionals for consultation and these enquiries are welcomed.

MALE VD CLINIC

Beginning in the fall of 1973 with only screening available the CLINIC has now expanded to include treatment as well.

GAY VD CLINIC
913 Spring Street (BLUE BUS) (obsolete address)
Madison, WI
Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 PM
Screening and Treatment

For further details on the CLINIC call the CENTER on weekday afternoons or evenings.

On CLINIC nights the facilities are staffed by gay volunteers and a physician is always present to answer your questions in person.

The GAY ACTIVIST'S ALLIANCE (GAA) is a University of Wisconsin registered student organization designed to meet the educational, social and political needs of the gay UM student community.

GAA is not limited to student membership and interest is the only requirement for attendance at meetings or social functions. See campus bulletin boards and DATELINES for time and locations of meetings, brunches, dances, etc.

SPEAKER AND PANEL BUREAU PHONE INFORMATION SERVICE

Interested educational or service-oriented groups desiring individuals or panels of gay people to openly discuss feelings and experiences should contact the CENTER by phone or in writing. The gay experience will be placed within the spectrum of human experience rather than isolating it outside that experience and labelling it a deviance.

Professions and professional groups seeking to learn more about gay lifestyles, adaptations, and adjustments are encouraged to include input from gay people rather than accept the testimony of "experts" whose sources and experiences are frequently questionable. Gay people are adequately prepared to speak for themselves and their experiences in any serious enquiry.

RESOURCES

The CENTER will gladly cooperate with scholars who wish to research gay themes in literature, religion, history, and law as well as investigations into the homophobia which dominates and has dominated the thinking of much critical teaching and criticism. New to Madison? Need directions to the bars and other local activities? Just call 257-7575 during phone hours.

Through the use of the GAYELLOW PAGES we can give you listings for bars, baths, groups, etc., in most major cities throughout the US, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

LEGAL SERVICES

Legal referrals and private consultation on legal questions affecting gay people as well as discrimination cases are available by calling the CENTER, 257-7575, weekday afternoons and evenings.

The projects and services described herein are funded through contributions and pledges from throughout the community. If you believe these are worth-while and should be continued your support is encouraged. Tax exempt status has been applied for;call the CENTER for details.

RENAISSANCE OF MADISON, INC.
BOX 687 (obsolete address)
MADISON, WI 53701
(phone number removed)
Weekday afternoons, 1-5 PM, 7-10 PM, or by appointment.

RENAISSANCE OF MADISON
1001 UNIVERSITY AVENUE (obsolete address)
(BASEMENT)
MADISON, WISCONSIN 53715
(phone number removed)
1-5, 7-10 PM. OR BY APPOINTMENT