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

This online session, designed for the Jackson 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, connecting national history to our local experience. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future here in Jackson and beyond.

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 places like Jackson 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 catalyzed a new era of public protest that reached communities across the nation, including our own. Understand how this single event transformed the fight for gay rights into a visible, national movement.

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 how national events like the AIDS crisis and the rise of intersectionality have had a unique impact on communities like Jackson. This exploration of the History of Pride offers a clear overview, accessible from your home. While this discussion is framed for Jackson, all are welcome to join this online event from anywhere in the world.