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

This online session, designed for the Morristown 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 societal shifts that have shaped the ongoing struggle for equality. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future, both nationally and here in our local context.

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. Discover the challenges faced by LGBT individuals and the courageous steps they took to demand visibility in a society that often preferred they remain invisible, reflecting a spirit of resilience found across the country, including in New Jersey.

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 and community organizing. Understand how this event transformed the fight for gay rights into a visible, national movement whose echoes helped shape advocacy in communities like Morristown.

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 exploration of the History of Pride offers a clear and accessible overview for anyone in the Morristown area interested in the topic. While this conversation is framed with our local community in mind, we welcome attendees from anywhere in the world to join us online.