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

This online session, designed for the Lancaster 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 nationally and here in Pennsylvania. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future, from a local and global perspective.

We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising, setting the stage for the activism we see today. Learn about the early organizations and hidden communities that laid the groundwork for future movements across the country. Discover the challenges faced by LGBT individuals and the courageous first steps they took to demand visibility and rights in a society that often preferred they remain invisible, creating a foundation for change that would eventually reach communities like Lancaster.

This digital 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 are felt right here in Lancaster.

In this online 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, connecting historical events to the vibrant community in Lancaster. This includes an overview of the impact of the AIDS crisis, the rise of intersectionality, and the ongoing debates within the community. While this online exploration of the History of Pride is presented with our Lancaster audience in mind, we welcome attendees from anywhere to join us digitally and learn together.