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

This online session, designed for the Harrisonburg community, provides a comprehensive look into the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture. While the story is global, its impact resonates right here in our city. 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 in places like Harrisonburg.

We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising. This context is crucial for understanding the journey of LGBT communities everywhere. 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.

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 and community organizing, transforming the fight for gay rights into a visible, national movement whose effects helped shape the advocacy we see 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.
• 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 exploration of Pride history offers a clear overview for anyone interested. While this online event is presented with our Harrisonburg community in mind, we welcome attendees from anywhere in the world to join and learn with us.