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

Join us online from Chicago for a comprehensive look into the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture. While this is a global story, we'll connect these pivotal moments to the context of our own city's journey. You will get insights on the influential figures and societal shifts that have shaped the ongoing struggle for equality. This session is designed for our Chicago community but is accessible online to all who wish to learn.

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, from the coasts to the Midwest. Discover the challenges faced by LGBT individuals in places like Chicago 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 their immediate impact, leading to the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March. Understand how this single event catalyzed a new era of public protest, inspiring activists in Chicago and across the nation to form new groups and demand change.

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.
• How the national movement for gay rights influenced activism and community-building in Chicago.
• 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 profound local impact of the AIDS crisis on Chicago neighborhoods and the rise of intersectionality within our community's diverse fabric. 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.