Butch/femme originated from community. Friendships among and between femmes and butches have always been essential to the identity, as this was where strength grew in the fight for visibility. As these labels became more widespread, official societies and organizations formed, such as the Butch/Femme Society, which still exists today. These groups worked to host fundraisers and events that promoted lesbian health, wellness, and recreation. Butch/femme also moved into the academic world as those who had spent their younger years experimenting with the identity wrote about their involvement, reflected, and organized.

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