EDIE FOR EQUALITY

Edie Windsor stands up for LGBTQ rights.

A young Edie is attracted to women, but only upon moving to New York in 1951 is she able to be her authentic self. Though Edie and Thea fall in love and get engaged, they know their marriage would be illegal. Edie and Thea are white and Jewish and have both faced unfairness based on their religion and sexuality, which fuels their activism. Decades later, Edie and Thea go to Canada to get married legally. When Thea passes away, Edie is left with a broken heart and a large inheritance bill—spouses can legally inherit property without paying taxes, but the U.S. government never recognized Edie and Thea’s marriage. Edie sues the U.S. government, hoping to defeat the Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as being between a man and a woman. Her case reaches the Supreme Court, which, in 2013, determines that DOMA is unconstitutional after all. The story breezes past Edie’s childhood, focusing on her relationship with Thea and the Supreme Court case. Despite some pacing issues, the importance of Edie’s story is conveyed effectively. Expository blocks of text feel at odds with colorful pop art illustrations that might appeal to a younger set. Detailed backmatter offers context and interest, some of which may have benefited from inclusion in the story.

Not without its flaws, but a solid picture-book biography of an unforgettable hero for queer rights activism.