A Look Back at the Past
It’s been 55 years since the Stonewall Uprising, a monumental moment in the history of the LGBTQ movement. In 1969, a group of LGBTQ individuals in New York City bravely withstood a police raid targeting a gay bar. They protested, got arrested but steadfastly defended their rights. Although it wasn’t the first instance of resistance against oppression, it sparked a global effort striving for LGBTQ equality.
Over the years, victories have been won and setbacks have been faced. The community, however, remains steadfast, pushing forward with unwavering resilience and resolve. We owe our journey towards equality to generations of LGBTQ leaders who have strived relentlessly for our cause. Let’s hear from some of today’s influential figures in the fight for equal rights on the past, present and the anticipated future of the LGBTQ rights movement.
Voices at the Forefront
Kelley Robinson, a queer cisgender woman, serves as the president of the Human Rights Campaign. She highlighted victories like the passing of the Marriage Equality Act and the Bostock ruling. However, she emphasizes the challenges facing the community, mentioning the discrimination queer individuals face from lawmakers across the country. Robinson also calls on the community to use its voting strength in the impending election, emphasizing that “When we show up, equality wins”.
Moving Forward with Pride and Determination
Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD CEO and president, speaks of how far the community has come since Stonewall. Focusing on the positives, she celebrates the freedom today’s LGBTQ individuals enjoy, from the freedom to live and love openly to the joy of openly accepting one’s identity. At the same time, she acknowledges the struggle, particularly for trans individuals, amid unprecedented attacks.
Continuing the Fight for Equality
The first openly gay person of color elected to Congress, Mark Takano, acknowledged landmark victories from the failed Briggs Initiative to the U.S. Supreme Court’s upholding of same-sex unions. However, he warns about the on-going targeting of trans individuals and calls the community to stand united against such vilification.
Youth Advocacy and Representation
Desi Napoles, a student and LGBTQ+ youth advocate, praises the legalization of same-sex marriage, increased LGBTQ+ representation, and increased support for LGBTQ+ youth. Despite progress, Napoles warns about issues of homelessness, mental health, and legislation restricting the rights of LGBTQ+ youth.
Celebrating the Queer Life
Sasha Colby, trans rights activist and winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” speaks highly of the longevity of trans women, particularly trans women of color. She points out the gift of queerness as living life on one’s own terms, practicing the human experience to its fullest.
A Deeper Dive
Adding layers to the narrative, journalist Eric Marcus notes the anti-gay campaign of the ’70s as a turning point for him. He sees his role in journalism as essential in rectifying misconceptions and stereotypes about the LGBTQ+ community. Meanwhile, Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, a trans man and executive director for the National Center for Transgender Equality, shares concerns about the increasing anti-LGBTQI+ bills targeting transgender individuals.
Standing alone in a rural environment, Ash Orr, a trans, pansexual advocate and storyteller from West Virginia, touches upon the hostile legislation threatening the community’s right to live freely.
Looking forward, it’s clear that the journey toward complete LGBTQ+ equality is both arduous and rewarding. These LGBTQ+ leaders highlight both the progression and ongoing struggles. Their efforts, together with our community’s resilience, ensure that progress continues for generations to come.
