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

This online session, designed for the Madison 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, providing context for our own local experiences. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future here in Madison and beyond.

We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising. Learn about the early organizations and hidden communities across the nation that laid the groundwork for future activism. We'll consider 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, setting the stage for change everywhere.

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 rippled out from New York City to inspire communities across the country. Understand how this event catalyzed a new era of public protest and community organizing, influencing the fight for gay rights and the emergence of Pride traditions in cities like Madison.

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 that affected communities nationwide.
• 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 that shape the community on both a national and local level. This exploration of the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture offers a clear and accessible overview for anyone interested in the topic. While this discussion is framed with our Madison audience in mind, we welcome attendees from anywhere to join us online and learn together.