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

This online session, designed for our Calgary community, provides a comprehensive look into the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture. You will get insights on the pivotal moments and influential figures that have shaped the ongoing struggle for equality, both globally and here in Alberta. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future in our city. While this discussion is framed for Calgarians, we welcome attendees from anywhere in the world.

We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising. Learn about the early organizations and hidden communities 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, a reality felt from major centers to cities like Calgary.

The talk will then focus on the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 as a major turning point. We will examine how this single event catalyzed a new era of public protest, inspiring the first marches that eventually grew into the Calgary Pride parade we know today.

In this 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, including in cities like Calgary.
• 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. This includes an overview of the impact of the AIDS crisis on communities everywhere, the rise of intersectionality, and ongoing debates. This exploration of the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture offers a clear and accessible overview for anyone interested in the topic.