History of Pride: Foundations of LGBT and Queer Culture - St. Louis

This online session, designed for the St. Louis 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, understanding how these national movements resonate locally. Understand the roots of the movement to better appreciate its present and future here in St. Louis 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 discuss 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 led to the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March and inspired activism in cities everywhere, including St. Louis. Understand how this single event catalyzed a new era of public protest and community organizing.

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, including its meaning in St. Louis.
• 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 includes an overview of the impact of the AIDS crisis, the rise of intersectionality, and ongoing debates. While this exploration of the History of Pride is tailored for a St. Louis audience, this digital event is accessible to anyone globally interested in the topic.