Controversy has erupted in Alabama as some lawmakers aim to withdraw $5 million in funding from the Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH). This move comes in response to a June lecture hosted by the department focusing on LGBTQ+ history in the state.

The lecture, titled "Invisible No More: Alabama’s LGBTQ+ History," covered various aspects of the community's experiences, from Alabama's inaugural Pride march to the contributions of LGBTQ+ Alabamians. This presentation was a part of the ADAH's regular "Food for Thought" lunchtime series, which has featured a range of subjects, including figures like Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., musician Duane Allman, and even the state's official mammal, the black bear.

Senator Chris Elliott, a Republican from Daphne, has spearheaded the effort to rescind the $5 million supplemental appropriation. Elliott argues that the lecture's subject matter is inappropriate for the ADAH, emphasizing the biological distinctions between sexes as the core reason for his objection. He stated that roughly ten lawmakers had requested the Archives cancel the lecture beforehand, but the ADAH proceeded with the event. Although Elliott admits to not having viewed the lecture, which is accessible on social media, he maintains his stance against it.

ADAH Director Steve Murray defended the lecture in a letter addressed to lawmakers, highlighting that the presentation aligns with the ADAH's mission to disseminate knowledge about Alabama's history and resources. He emphasized the institution's dedication to providing evidence-based historical information and urged lawmakers to make informed decisions regarding the funding. Murray clarified that the lecture series primarily operates without public funding, except for a federal grant received through the Alabama Humanities Alliance, which was used to compensate the presenter.

The $5 million in question was earmarked for museum enhancements, including the modernization of Native American exhibits, a new military gallery, and the creation of a children’s gallery.

The special legislative session is primarily focused on redrawing congressional district maps. Passing legislation on other matters requires a two-thirds majority, which Elliott believes he can secure.

Historian Maigen Sullivan, a co-founder of the Invisible Histories Project, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the history of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Deep South, delivered the lecture. Sullivan explained that the presentation delved into lesser-known aspects of Alabama’s LGBTQ+ history, including, ironically, past legislative opposition to an LGBTQ+ student group at Auburn University in the 1990s. She characterized the current legislative pushback as harmful, particularly in the current climate where LGBTQ+ individuals and related topics face increasing scrutiny.