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

This online session, designed for the Scranton community, explores the pivotal moments and figures that shaped today's LGBT and queer movements. From your home in Scranton or anywhere in the world, you will get insights on the history of Pride, from its foundations to its modern expression. Understanding the roots of this struggle for equality helps us appreciate its present and future, both globally and in our own neighborhoods.

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, even in cities like Scranton. 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, which rippled out from New York to inspire communities across the nation, including here in Pennsylvania. 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 that would eventually influence life in Scranton.

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, connecting these broad themes to the experiences of the Scranton community. This includes an overview of the impact of the AIDS crisis, the rise of intersectionality, and the ongoing debates within the community. This online exploration of the History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture offers a clear and accessible overview for anyone interested in the topic, whether you're joining from Lackawanna County or from across the globe.