Social Activists, the Boston SIsters of Perpetual Indulgence
What does courageous and meaningful social action look like? How do we face ignorance and intolerance in society? These are a few of the questions that the photographs of the lives and the activities of the Boston Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence explore—not by addressing them confrontationally but by opening new possibilities for thought and dialogue. Photographs, and the human stories behind them can be tools for inspiring compassion, shifting perspective, and supporting social change.
There are 2000+ Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence worldwide with 13 members in the Boston area. The Order welcomes anyone, although the majority of Sisters are gay men. Founded in 1979 in San Francisco, the costuming as nuns was meant as high camp to draw attention to the social conflicts, stereotypes, and taboos which lie at the root of intolerance and prejudice. These elaborate “habits” also provide each member with a unique persona through which they become an “avatar of activism”. The ministry believes that people should be encouraged to live their lives in any way that brings them the most joy, without guilt or shame, as long as they do no harm.
I have been photographing the Boston Order of Sisters since 2011. They have graciously accepted me into their lives as a friend, chronicler and witness to their ministry. When I work with the Sisters I feel welcomed for who I am, and often arrive home feeling hopeful for a better future. I know that the profound emotional support that the Sisters offer can be life-changing, if not life-saving, perhaps even for the Sisters themselves.
