Out in the Archives
Gender and Sexuality Collections at Georgia State University

Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Visitor’s Center

At the urging of his LGBT community advisors, Mayor Bill Campbell ordered the opening of the Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Visitor’s Center at Center Stage Theatre. The Center welcomed gays and lesbians attending the Olympic Games. With Julie Rhode as facilitator, the Center served as an information hub, exhibit space, and venue for shows and concerts.  

“We had these foam core boards that people could message and write little notes on. It was really sweet because throughout the summer, and in particular during the Olympics, there were messages from people all over the world who had found a spot that felt like it was their spot, and it was safe space.”
Julie Rhoad, September 13, 2019

Welcome Center display panel with photographs of Julie Rhode and Margo Smith, staff organizers
Photograph of the Center Stage Welcome Center building
Program — Center Stage, Gay and Lesbian Visitor’s Center: “For the first time ever, an Olympic host city has a Gay & Lesbian Visitor’s Center”
Photograph of John Lewis, Brook Glaglke and Emily Salierscutting the ribbon opening the Welcome Center
Newspaper clipping — The Gay and Lesbian Visitor’s Center, “A Gay Welcome”
Photograph of Center Stage Sign
Program — Center Stage, Gay and Lesbian Visitor’s Center: Farewell Party, September 13, 1996