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Homosexuality, a taboo
Homosexuality is largely considered taboo, and LGBTQ+ individuals face discrimination, harassment, and police raids on gay bars. -
Formation of LGBTQ organizations
LGBTQ+ activists and organizations start to form in major cities, advocating for basic rights and decriminalization of homosexuality. -
Police raids leading to riots
The Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City, is raided by police, leading to a confrontation between patrons and law enforcement.
LGBTQ+ individuals, including transgender people, drag queens, and homeless youth, resist the police raid and subsequent arrests, sparking several nights of protests and clashes with law enforcement.
Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transgender activist, and Sylvia Rivera, a Latina transgender activist, emerge as prominent figures during the riots. -
First pride parade
The first Pride parades are held in various cities, marking the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
LGBTQ+ activists emphasize the importance of "coming out" to challenge societal stereotypes and prejudices. -
Removal of homosexuality as mental disorder from DSM
The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from its list of mental disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). -
LGBTQ+ activists working against discrimination and raising awareness about the HIV/AIDS
LGBTQ+ activists work to combat discrimination and raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which disproportionately affects the community.
Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) form to address LGBTQ+ and AIDS-related issues. -
Defense of Marriage Act
President Bill Clinton signs the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which defines marriage as between a man and a woman for federal purposes.
LGBTQ+ activists and allies start pushing for marriage equality and equal rights recognition. -
Sodomy laws
The U.S. Supreme Court strikes down sodomy laws in Lawrence v. Texas, decriminalizing consensual same-sex sexual activity across the country. -
"Don't Ask, Don't Tell,"
"Don't Ask, Don't Tell," the military policy that prohibited openly LGBTQ+ individuals from serving, is repealed. -
Legalization of same sex marriage
Landmark Supreme Court decision legalizes same-sex marriage across the United States, a historic victory for LGBTQ+ rights. -
Federal law passed protecting LGBTQ employees
The Supreme Court rules that federal law protects LGBTQ+ employees from workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. -
LGBTQ representation
Advances in LGBTQ+ representation are seen across various industries, promoting increased visibility and understanding while advocating for further legal protections.