Tea Time records

Tea Time was a Philadelphia-based social and support organization for Asian and Pacific Islander gay and bisexual men, operational between 1991-1993. It was dedicated to creating an anti-racist and anti-homophobic space for developing positive identity and creating awareness around issues relevant to gay, Asian and Pacific Islanders in a shared, nurturing community.

The group was first founded in May, 1991, and held meetings once a month on Drexel’s campus, hosted by the Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals at Drexel. Later, in search of a more autonomous standing, non-affiliated with a university, the group moved to Penguin Place (predessor of William Way LGBT Community Center) on Camac Street, and then in 1992, the offices of Asian Americans United on Arch Street. These meetings assumed different structure over the course of two years, but were usually open only to members. At times, a portion of the meeting would be open to the public, or would invite members to bring guests.

In addition to their regular monthly meetings, Tea Time organized events, such as Pride and Lunar New Year parties, film screenings, discussion circles, and presentations on safer sex education and fighting discrimination against gay and Asian communities. In 1992, the group also started organizing in a concerted effort around HIV and AIDS awareness and education, alongside Safeguards, a project of the AIDS Information Network. Their meetings and events often convened as a potluck-style gathering, encouraging attendees to bring a dish to share. Tea and snacks were always served.

Initially, membership was open to all Asians who identified as gay or bisexual. In later writings and advertisements, Tea Time described itself more specifically as a social group for gay and bisexual Asian men. Noted members included Richard Liu and Mark Hua (founders), Howard Lee, Sang Le, Vik Veluz, Wilson Chick, as well as prominent HIV/AIDS activist and editor of Critical Path Project, Kiyoshi Kuromiya.

Tea Time ultimately disbanded in 1993, due to lack of membership, budgetary issues, and interpersonal conflicts. The donor letter cites “controversial exclusiveness” as a source of discord in the organization. At the time, many gay, Asian social groups, such as Asians & Friends, which had active chapters in cities around the United States, were open to both Asian and non-Asian members. After Tea Time dissolved, some of its members moved on to another organization called Club Eurasian, which advertised itself as an organization for Asians, Pacific Islanders, Amerasians and the men who admired them.