8.4 Gay Rights Movement and Stonewall Riots

The gay rights movement emerged from underground LGBTQ+ communities in urban areas, facing persecution in the 1950s. The Stonewall Riots in 1969 sparked modern activism, leading to the formation of new organizations and annual Pride celebrations.

Key issues included legal protections, relationship recognition, and visibility. Activists used grassroots organizing, demonstrations, and litigation to fight discrimination. The movement's impact is seen in changing laws, increased acceptance, and greater representation in society.

The Gay Rights Movement

Origins of gay rights movement

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• Early 20th century witnesses the formation of underground LGBTQ+ communities in urban areas
  • Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s increases visibility of LGBTQ+ artists and writers (Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston)
• Post-World War II era marked by increased persecution and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals
  • 1950s Lavender Scare, paralleling the Red Scare, targets LGBTQ+ individuals in government and society (Eisenhower's Executive Order 10450)
• 1950s-1960s sees the emergence of the homophile movement, advocating for acceptance and rights
  • Mattachine Society (1950) and Daughters of Bilitis (1955) founded to promote LGBTQ+ rights and provide support
• Late 1960s Stonewall Riots mark a turning point, sparking the modern gay rights movement (June 28, 1969)

Significance of Stonewall Riots

• June 28, 1969 police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City's Greenwich Village, triggers uprising
  • LGBTQ+ patrons and supporters resist arrest, leading to a multi-day uprising (Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera)
• Stonewall Riots symbolize resistance against discrimination and oppression faced by LGBTQ+ community
  • Inspire the formation of new LGBTQ+ rights organizations (Gay Liberation Front, Gay Activists Alliance) and activism
• June 28 is now celebrated as Pride Day, with Pride Month observed in June to commemorate Stonewall
• Stonewall Riots are considered a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility

Key issues in gay rights

• Legal protection against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations
• Recognition of same-sex relationships and marriage equality (Defense of Marriage Act, 1996)
• Inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in hate crime legislation (Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, 2009)
• Decriminalization of consensual same-sex sexual activity (sodomy laws)
• Increased visibility and representation in media and society
• Access to healthcare and medical treatment without discrimination (HIV/AIDS crisis)

Strategies of gay rights activists

• Grassroots organizing and community building
  • Establishment of LGBTQ+ community centers and support networks (The Center, New York City)
• Public demonstrations, marches, and protests to raise awareness and demand change
  • Annual Pride parades and events (San Francisco Pride, New York City Pride)
• Litigation and legal challenges to discriminatory laws and practices
  • Landmark court cases (Lawrence v. Texas, 2003; Obergefell v. Hodges, 2015)
• Lobbying and political advocacy to influence legislation and policy
  • Collaboration with allied organizations and politicians (Human Rights Campaign)
• Education and outreach to promote understanding and acceptance
  • Challenging stereotypes and prejudices through media representation and personal storytelling (Ellen DeGeneres, Harvey Milk)

Impact on society and law

• Increased public support for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance
  • Changing attitudes reflected in public opinion polls and cultural shifts (Pew Research Center surveys)
• Legal victories and policy changes
  • Repeal of sodomy laws, anti-discrimination protections, and marriage equality in many states and at the federal level (Supreme Court decisions)
• Greater visibility and representation in media, politics, and public life
  • Openly LGBTQ+ individuals in elected office (Tammy Baldwin, Jared Polis), entertainment (RuPaul, Laverne Cox), and business (Tim Cook)
• Ongoing challenges and disparities persist
  • Continued discrimination, violence, and health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those with intersecting marginalized identities (transgender women of color)
• The gay rights movement has made significant progress but continues to work towards full equality and acceptance