Never Going Back: A History of Queer Activism in Canada

'Historically valuable, highly readable and engaging, Never Going Back is a carefully researched book, chock-full of the voices of more than 100 queer narrators from the rainbow polyglot called Canada ... Warner lovingly honours the racial, regional, linguistic, gender, and sexual diversity of queer Canadians, and the feminist, anti-racist, and pro-sex strategies we've invented "to overthrow the dictatorship of compulsory heterosexuality." From big city publications, Pussy Palaces, and dyke marches, to small town dances, pride days, and house-parties, Warner acknowledges the often angry, impatient, and always creative responses to the legacy of anti-homo shame and invisibility, from Cornerbrook, Nfld., to Nanaimo, B.C. At the same time, he warns against complacency as governments slash HIV/AIDS funding, rates of queer poverty and anti-queer violence increase, racism persists, and queer stories remain silenced in schools. For everyone curious about queer activist victories and setbacks, and committed to the future of a richly queered Canada, Warner's book is required reading.'

Becki L. Ross, Associate Professor, Sociology and Women's Studies, University of British Columbia

'On the strengths of his own activist engagement and pan-Canadian political contacts, Tom Warner has told a highly readable and dramatic tale. Here are recounted the struggles of activists across this country making waves and scoring significant victories, though still facing the challenges of continuing exclusion.'

David Rayside, Political Science and Sexual Diversity Studies, University of Toronto

'An engaged, in-the-trenches view by an activist who was very often there as history was being made, Never Going Back offers a rich record of a movement that has changed Canada.'

Barry Adam, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Windsor