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

This online session, specially presented for the Marietta 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 shaped the ongoing struggle for equality. By understanding the roots of this global movement, we can better appreciate its present and future impact right here in Marietta.

We will begin by exploring the world before the Stonewall Uprising, a context that shaped communities across the nation, including our own. 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 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, 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 even today in Marietta.

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 these broader themes to our shared experiences. This includes an overview of the impact of the AIDS crisis, the rise of intersectionality, and the ongoing debates within the community. While designed for our Marietta audience, this online exploration of the History of Pride is accessible globally, offering a clear overview for anyone interested in the topic.