Jim is an accomplished public speaker, author, and historian who offers unique and entertaining perspectives on California gay and lesbian history, Jewish identity, and Bay Area-related movies. He is currently available for bookings with the following four talks, as well as readings, workshops, and more. For availability, rates, and other information, please send him an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
A talk with video clips by Jim Van Buskirk
Shortly after Alcatraz opened as a federal prison in 1934, its career as a setting for movies began.
A talk with film clips by Jim Van Buskirk
The Golden Gate Bridge has probably starred in more movies than any other American architectural icon.
Read more: On Location: The Golden Gate Bridge on the Silver Screen
A talk with slides and film clips by Jim Van Buskirk
San Francisco has appeared in hundreds of movies and television series, some famous, others obscure, from Eric von Stroheim's 1924 Greed to Dirty Harry to Zodiac.
A talk with slides by Jim Van Buskirk
At the age of 54, Jim Van Buskirk, who had been raised "devoutly Unitarian" met with him mother after a long estrangement. Facing her own mortality, she said she had something to tell him: "You are Jewish."
A talk with video clips by Jim Van Buskirk
Using trailers from mainstream movies from the 1960s and 1970s, we'll investigate Hollywood's depiction of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender characters to stimulate a lively discussion of our own understanding of sexuality and gender issues.
Read more: How Has Hollywood (Mis)Represented Homosexuality?
A talk with images presented by Jim Van Buskirk
This program offers a visual timeline of the many pioneering individuals, organizations, publications and activities in San Francisco during the 100 years leading up to the pivotal Stonewall Rebellion of 1969.
Read more: San Francisco: Chronicling the Century Before Stonewall
Photo by Kent Taylor
Download photo for print use
(4" x 6", 300dpi, TIF format)
Email Jim at
jimvanbuskirk@sbcglobal.net