Alan Cohn, Joe Montoya, and Camryn Montoya-Cohn Oral History

This interview primarily covers the period of time between Joe and Alan’s previous interview in 2019 and the present day (2025). Joe, Alan, and their daughter Camryn discuss their experiences in the COVID-19 pandemic and share how they are reacting to the Trump administration’s attacks on LGBTQ+ people. Much of the conversation focuses on their plans for aging and preparing for the increasingly unsafe climate for queer people. They also share some of their history in Charlottesville, meeting other queer people, building community at the University of Virginia, and comparing today’s hostile environment with previous periods of increased hostility towards LGBTQ+ people such as the AIDS epidemic. Additionally, they discuss being in an interracial and inter-religious relationship and their vision for the future.

This oral history interview was recorded in partnership with the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society.