"Then & Now" Panel Discussion

Then and Now: A Panel Discussion on LGBTQIA+ History and Lived ExperienceSaturday, October 25, 2025 – 2 PM - 4 PM

Join us for Then and Now, a powerful panel discussion presented by Stamford Pride as part of its second annual LGBTQIA+ History Project. This event brings together historians, advocates, educators, and content creators to explore the evolving experiences of LGBTQIA+ communities—past and present—with a particular focus on transgender and intersex voices.

Featuring:

• Dr. Vernon A. Rosario II (he/him) — A psychiatrist and medical historian who grew up here in Stamford, Dr. Rosario's research centers on transgender and intersex youth. He brings deep historical insight and clinical expertise, including his leadership with the Intersex Society of North America.
• Liat Feller (she/they) — A consultant, educator and advocate working across early childhood, healthcare, and LGBTQIA+ spaces, Stamford's Liat Feller integrates trauma-informed care with Jewish values of healing and compassion. A 2023 InterACT Youth Advocate, Liat champions the rights and visibility of youth with sex characteristic variations.
• Zoe Stoller (they/them) — A licensed social worker, educator, and digital creator, Zoe uses social media to foster awareness around LGBTQ+ and mental health issues. Their advocacy is rooted in personal storytelling and community engagement.

Moderated by:

• UConn Stamford Professor Mars Plater (they/them) — A scholar of urban and environmental history, Mars brings a lens of social resistance and intersectionality to the conversation. Their academic work explores 19th-century New York City's green spaces as arenas of joy, struggle, and solidarity for marginalized communities.

This panel offers a unique blend of historical context and contemporary lived experience, amplifying the voices of those often at the margins of mainstream LGBTQIA+ narratives. Whether you’re an activist, student, ally, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, or just someone interested in learning more, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of where we’ve been—and where we’re going.

Find out more about our History Project project and how to get involved here.

Host or Publisher Stamford Pride