Queer Stories Now:
An Arts Program for Queer Teens

About the Program:

Queer Stories Now is a FREE after school program for LGBTQ+ teens (ages 14-17) living in the City of Rochester. Students will explore identity, self expression, and queer history through learning the art of making zines. Queer Stories Now is a space for students to learn how to use the visual arts to build a community where their voice is heard! 

Queer Stories Now is a program of Rathaus Press. Programming will be held at Lilac Library, 50 Prince St, Rochester, NY 14607. Students must identify as LGBTQ+ and be a resident of the City of Rochester to participate in this program. See calendar below, or on the application, for meeting dates and times.

Applications for the Fall cohort have closed, keep an eye out for the Spring session.

FAQ:

  • Nope! This program is absolutely free. There is no cost to attend, and all materials are provided.

  • Nope! This program is open to anyone who is interested. We just ask that students be interested in the material.

  • Applying for Queer Stories Now does not guarantee a spot in the program, since there are only 10 spots available.

    We are considering a number of factors when selecting students for this program, including:

    • Residence in City of Rochester (required)

    • Expressed interest in the material

    • Lack of access to similar opportunities

    • Need for LGBTQ+ community

    Things that will not lower your chances:

    • Need for Bus Passes: We offer free all day bus passes for any student that needs them. These are available for a reason! Do not hesitate to request them, it will not affect your application.

    • Lack of Previous Experience: We are aware that programs like this can be expensive or inaccessible for many communities. Your child will not be penalized if they haven't taken other art classes.

    • Disabilities: We are dedicated to making this program accessible! Our location is ADA accessible, please let us know in your application of other needs. Specific questions can be emailed to info@rathaus.press

    If your child is not selected, we encourage you to apply again in the Spring!

  • Nope! Students do not need to be enrolled at any particular school, however they must reside in the City of Rochester. To check if your address is in the city limits, use this map.

  • We cannot provide dedicated transportation, but all students have the option to request free RTS bus passes. There is an RTS stop very close to the Lilac Library, instructors will meet students at the bus stop.

Thank you for your interest in Queer Stories Now. Please direct any questions you may have about your application, or our program in general, to info@rathaus.press

This program is made possible by ArtsBloom, funding through the City of Rochester's Percent for the Arts Program.