History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture - Aberdeen

This online session, designed for the Aberdeen community, provides a comprehensive look into the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture. You will get insights on the pivotal moments, influential figures, and societal shifts that have shaped the ongoing struggle for equality. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future, with context relevant to our lives here in Aberdeen.

We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising. Learn about the early organizations and hidden communities across the nation that laid the groundwork for future activism. Discover the challenges faced by LGBT individuals and the courageous first steps they took to demand visibility and rights in a society that often preferred they remain invisible.

The talk will then focus on the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 as a major turning point. We will examine the context of the riots and how their impact rippled out, eventually influencing community organizing everywhere, including in areas like ours. Understand how this single event catalyzed a new era of public protest, transforming the fight for gay rights into a visible, national movement.

In this online session, you will learn about:

• The social and political climate for LGBT people before 1969.
• The significance of the Stonewall Uprising and its lasting legacy.
• The evolution of Pride from a political march to a global celebration.
• Key legislative battles and cultural milestones over the decades.
• The expansion of terminology and the inclusion of diverse identities within the community.

Finally, we will discuss the modern era and the complexities of queer culture today, offering an exploration of the History of Pride that is both broad and meaningful. This includes an overview of the impact of the AIDS crisis, the rise of intersectionality, and the ongoing debates within the community. While this event is curated with the Aberdeen community in mind, we welcome attendees joining us online from anywhere in the world.