"I don't want to make it sound like a hotbed of lesbianism but I did have a number of relationships"

Jean O'Leary's quote is a reflection of her experience as a lesbian in the 1970s. She is acknowledging the truth that she had numerous relationships with other women, however she does not wish to make it sound like she was living in a "hotbed of lesbianism". This quote is a testament to the battles that the LGBTQ+ neighborhood faced throughout this time duration. O'Leary is likely trying to emphasize the fact that, regardless of the troubles, she was still able to discover love and companionship with other ladies. Her quote is a tip of the strength and durability of the LGBTQ+ neighborhood, and how they have been able to get rid of adversity and discover acceptance in society. O'Leary's quote is an effective pointer of the progress that has actually been made in the defend LGBTQ+ rights, and how far we have actually come because the 1970s.