Lesbian Pioneer: Reading and Appreciation of Laura Fredy Thoma

Laura Fredy Thoma (1901-1966) was a co-founder of "Damenclub Amicitia" in Zurich in 1931, the first association for lesbian women in Switzerland. In early 1932, she was co-editor of the magazine "Freundschaftsbanner," in which "like-minded people" wanted to conquer both their "inner freedom" and "great freedom outwards." As the youngest of 17 children, she could not complete an apprenticeship, but she continued her education autodidactically and took on the roles of minute-taker, editor, poet, and author in the "Damenclub" and the magazine. Her texts touch through their empathy with the lesbian protagonists and their desire for love and freedom. "Light and freedom in the soul, so that shame never torments you again. Free from the judgment of others, never again prey to scorn. Help to break the yoke of ostracism, banish loneliness and torment." (Freundschaftsbanner 1,1932) On October 15, 2026, it will be Laura Fredy Thoma's 125th birthday. To honor this lesbian pioneer, we will present her biography and read from her texts. Finally, we will raise a glass in Laura Fredy Thomas's honor. Madeleine Marti, Livia Sutter, Corinne Rufli, Natalie Raeber, Franca dell’Avo Sappho Association Lesbian History, supported by Café GLEIS.