The Struggle for LGBTQ+ Rights: Lessons from the Stonewall Riots
This presentation by Louis Diamond, Sammie Hirsh, and Brad Some explores the emergence of the LGBTQ+ rights movement amid widespread hatred, discrimination, and violence against homosexuals. Highlighting the significance of the Stonewall Riots, which marked a turning point for the community, the discussion delves into the goals of achieving equality, the right to marry, and eliminating discrimination. It also reviews various strategies employed, including marches and protests, and reflects on the successes achieved, such as the declassification of homosexuality as a mental illness and significant legal advancements.
The Struggle for LGBTQ+ Rights: Lessons from the Stonewall Riots
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Presentation Transcript
GAYS AND LESBIANS THE STRUGGLE Presentation By: LOUIS DIAMOND, SAMMIE HIRSH, AND BRAD SOME
WHY DID THE CAUSE EMERGE? Widespread hatred, disrespect, violence, and intolerance for homosexual community Alienation Inability to find work Stigma associated with being gay
STONEWALL RIOTS • Several day conflict between LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender People) members and the NYPD. • Started as a Police raid , escalated to a violent protest • Stepping stone for gay community • First time that on a large scale LGBT worked together to accomplish a goal
GOALS OF GROUP? • To achieve equality • The ability to marry • To end discrimination against • To force America to see that being gay was not wrong • Show the America that Homosexuality was ubiquitous • To encourage homosexuals to “come out of the closet”
HOW TO ACHIEVE GOALS? • Marches • Speeches • Protests • Dressing in “rebellious clothing” • Direct action (picket lines)
WAS GROUP SUCCESSFUL/ WHAT BECAME OF CAUSE? • 1973 Homosexuality no longer a mental illness • 1982 Wisconsin outlaws discrimination based on sexual preference • 1993 “Don’t ask Don’t tell” policy, (gays can serve in military) • 2000’s Various states begin to allow legal partnerships between gays “The state cannot demean their existence or control their destiny by making their private sexual conduct a crime” – JusticeAnthony Kennedy