Jan 13, 1978: Harvey Milk Elected
On this day in 1978, Harvey Milk made history as the first openly gay person elected to public office in California, winning a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Milk’s victory symbolized a major milestone in LGBTQ+ representation in U.S. politics. As a vocal advocate for queer rights, he introduced a groundbreaking ordinance that prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation. Despite facing backlash and threats, Milk’s courage and dedication laid the groundwork for future leaders in the fight for equality.
Feb 4, 1969: The Stonewall Riots Begin
The Stonewall Riots, which began on this date in 1969, were a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ+ community in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. The raid and ensuing riots marked a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, as queer and trans people—led predominantly by Black and Latina transgender women—stood up against decades of systemic discrimination and harassment. The Stonewall Uprising sparked the formation of many LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and inspired the first pride marches the following year.
Mar 31, 2009: Transgender Day of Visibility
In 2009, activist Rachel Crandall founded Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of transgender people, while raising awareness about the discrimination they face. Since its inception, TDOV has grown into a globally recognized day dedicated to empowering transgender individuals and showcasing the diversity of their experiences, talents, and resilience.
Apr 25, 1979: First National March on Washington for LGBTQ+ Rights
On April 25, 1979, over 100,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C. for the first National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. The march demanded equal rights and legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, including the decriminalization of homosexuality, an end to discrimination in employment and housing, and increased funding for AIDS research. The event marked a pivotal moment in the visibility of the LGBTQ+ movement and laid the groundwork for future national activism.
May 22, 2009: Harvey Milk Day Established
California officially recognized Harvey Milk Day on this date in 2009, commemorating the birthday of Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in U.S. history. The day honors Milk’s legacy as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights and highlights his message of hope, acceptance, and equality. Schools, communities, and organizations across California use this day to teach and celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals.
July 2, 1974: First LGBTQ+ Civil Rights Bill Introduced
On July 2, 1974, Representatives Bella Abzug and Ed Koch introduced the first federal LGBTQ+ civil rights bill to the United States Congress. The bill aimed to amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation. Although the bill did not pass, it set a precedent for future legislative efforts to secure legal protections for LGBTQ+ people.
Aug 26, 1945: Marsha P. Johnson Born
Marsha P. Johnson, a key figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and a pioneer for transgender and gender-nonconforming advocacy, was born on August 26, 1945. Known for her activism in the Stonewall Riots and her work co-founding the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) with Sylvia Rivera, Johnson dedicated her life to supporting homeless queer youth, sex workers, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Her impact on the community continues to resonate through today’s activism.
Sept 14, 1994: ‘Gender Outlaw’ Published
Kate Bornstein’s ‘Gender Outlaw: On Men, Women, and the Rest of Us’ was published on this date in 1994. The book challenged traditional views of gender, encouraging readers to question the binary gender system and explore a spectrum of gender identities. ‘Gender Outlaw’ quickly became a foundational text in gender studies, opening up new conversations around the fluidity and complexity of gender.
Oct 11, 1988: National Coming Out Day Celebrated
First celebrated on October 11, 1988, National Coming Out Day encourages LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their identities and come out to friends, family, and colleagues. Established by activists Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, the day seeks to raise awareness and promote acceptance by highlighting the importance of visibility. It continues to be a vital part of LGBTQ+ advocacy and community support.
Nov 20, 1999: First Transgender Day of Remembrance
The first Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) was observed on this date in 1999, initiated by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith. The day honors the memory of transgender people who have lost their lives to anti-transgender violence. Since its inception, TDOR has become a global observance, drawing attention to the ongoing issues of transphobia and the urgent need for social change and protections.
Dec 1, 1988: World AIDS Day Observed
On December 1, 1988, the World Health Organization observed the first World AIDS Day to raise awareness about the AIDS pandemic and commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The day has since become a global initiative to educate communities, reduce stigma, and advocate for more comprehensive treatment and prevention efforts.
Oct 20, 1970: First LGBTQ+ Pride Parade in London
The first official LGBTQ+ pride parade in London took place on October 20, 1970. This landmark event followed the Stonewall Uprising and was one of the earliest pride demonstrations outside the United States. The parade marked a significant step toward visibility and acceptance in the United Kingdom and laid the foundation for future pride events in the country.
Oct 21, 1984: Audre Lorde Publishes ‘Sister Outsider’
Audre Lorde’s influential collection of essays and speeches, ‘Sister Outsider’, was published on October 21, 1984. The work explores intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and class, providing a critical lens through which to understand oppression and identity. Lorde’s writings have become essential readings in feminist and queer studies, inspiring activists and scholars around the world.
Oct 22, 1998: Gay Games Held in Amsterdam
The Gay Games, an international LGBTQ+ sporting and cultural event, were held in Amsterdam on this date in 1998. Bringing together thousands of LGBTQ+ athletes and supporters, the Games promoted inclusivity, self-expression, and pride. Amsterdam’s Games were particularly significant as they expanded the event’s reach and celebrated the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community on a global stage.
Oct 23, 2008: UN Supports LGBTQ+ Rights
On October 23, 2008, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a declaration supporting LGBTQ+ human rights, with signatories from various countries calling for an end to violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Although not legally binding, the declaration marked an important step toward global recognition and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
Oct 24, 1917: Alan Hart Performs First Hysterectomy
Dr. Alan Hart, a pioneering transgender doctor and radiologist, performed the first documented hysterectomy in the United States on October 24, 1917. Hart’s transition and medical practice paved the way for advancements in transgender healthcare and challenged societal norms surrounding gender and medicine.
Oct 25, 1951: Sylvia Rivera Born
Sylvia Rivera, born on October 25, 1951, was a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and a key figure in the gay liberation and transgender rights movements. As co-founder of the Gay Liberation Front and Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) alongside Marsha P. Johnson, Rivera fought tirelessly for the rights of homeless LGBTQ+ youth and transgender individuals, advocating for visibility and social change.
Oct 26, 1996: Intersex Awareness Day Observed
Intersex Awareness Day, first observed on October 26, 1996, marks the anniversary of a protest at the American Academy of Pediatrics conference in Boston. Advocates rallied against non-consensual surgeries on intersex infants and pushed for greater visibility and understanding of intersex issues. Today, the day highlights the ongoing struggles and rights of intersex individuals around the world.
Oct 27, 2015: Ireland Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage
On October 27, 2015, Ireland made history as the first country to legalize same-sex marriage by popular vote. This landmark victory was the culmination of years of advocacy and grassroots campaigning by LGBTQ+ activists and allies. The decision was widely celebrated as a turning point for LGBTQ+ rights in Ireland and inspired similar movements worldwide.