This online session, designed for the Flint community, provides a comprehensive look into the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture. You will get insights on pivotal moments and societal shifts that have shaped the ongoing struggle for equality, with a perspective on how these national movements resonated locally. While created for Flint, this digital talk is accessible to anyone interested, wherever you are.
We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising. Learn about the early organizations and hidden communities in places like Michigan that laid the groundwork for future activism. Discover the challenges faced by LGBT individuals and the courageous first steps they took to demand visibility 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, which inspired a new era of public protest and community organizing that reached communities far beyond New York, including industrial cities like Flint.
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.
- 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 the ongoing debates within the community. This online exploration of the History of Pride offers a clear and accessible overview for anyone interested in the topic.
