Barbara âBobbieâ Reaux, born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, was an active member of Richmond Lesbian Feminists for much of her adult life. Her notable story of growing up there as a Black child in the time of segregation, finding out that she was adopted, and coming out lesbian at age 25 after her second child was born gives us a fascinating glimpse of her courage and self-determination. She also gives her views about the bar culture in the South, as well as the Butch-Femme issue of the time.
Bobbie joined a majority white, political and social organization in the 1970s, accomplishing so much toward social justice that she inspires us.
Bobbie Reaux went through personal tragedies such as her husband being killed by a hit and run driver; and later, her tragic loss of a daughter, Desiree Maresia Reaux, by whom she has three grandsons. And yet, her story of resolution and faith is exemplary.
Bobbie Reauxâs children grew up with her as an out lesbian. Her adoptive parents were wonderful, yet an interesting part of her story is the process of finding her birth mother and family on her motherâs and fatherâs side. Also, she was out to them and became close to them.
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