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Abstract
LGBTQ individuals have a history of being ostracized and alienated from mainstream society, instead creating their own spaces for community and gathering. The history of the LGBTQ community and its associated historic sites has long been under-represented within the field of historic preservation. Recent initiatives at the national level to understand the types of spaces used by the community and the significant moments in its history have resulted in an increase in recognized historic sites. This thesis examines the work of not-for-profit projects which identify and advocate for the preservation of significant sites related to the queer community and the impact of that work on the preservation field. Case studies of not-for-profit projects are followed by suggestions for improving the identification and designation of LGBTQ historic sites.