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

This online session, designed for our Edmonton 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.

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. We'll consider the challenges faced by LGBT individuals in Edmonton and across Canada, and the courageous first steps they took to demand visibility and rights.

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, which led to the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March and inspired activism worldwide. Understand how this single event catalyzed a new era of community organizing that reached cities like Edmonton.

In this online session, you will learn about:

• The social and political climate for LGBT people before 1969, including in Alberta.
• The significance of the Stonewall Uprising and its lasting legacy in Canada.
• The evolution of Pride from a political march to a global celebration, including Edmonton's own Pride events.
• 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, the rise of intersectionality, and ongoing debates. This exploration of the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture offers an accessible overview for anyone interested in the topic. While this talk is tailored for Edmonton, we welcome attendees from anywhere in the world to join us online.