The LGBTQ Movement In America

The LGBTQ movement in America has been a social issue since the 1940’s, but progress has been made. I chose this topic because my older brother is homosexual, and I wanted to learn more about the movement as a whole. Therefore, I chose to interview my older brother, Shaun, about his role in the LGBTQ community and his perceptions of the movement. I asked him about his contributions to the issue, why it matters to him, his feelings about societies opinion on the community, the end goal of the movement, how the movement has changed since he came out, and how the states he has lived in are more open or hostile towards the community. Before, discussing the interview answers, the background of the LGBTQ movement must be discussed first. The Homophile …show more content…
The 1970’s began a radical movement for change with the Stonewall riot and the Gay Liberation Front influenced by the civil rights movement, feminism, and antiwar movement. The GLF achieved public support for coming out in public, a new expression of pride for the community, and a growth of movement organizations. In addition, the gay rights and lesbian-feminism movements occurred in the 70’s. First, gay rights ultimately resulted in less discrimination and harassment, more openings for gay-themed businesses, and in 1973, the American Psychiatric Association removed the term “homosexuality” off their mental disorder list— a huge triumph for the community. Second, the lesbian-feminism movement had their own successes. These included: a formation of a autonomous lesbian community, crisis help for struggling individuals as well as shelters and self-defense schooling. However, the 1970’s had some struggles— finances were dwindling, tensions were rising, and the economic recession made matters worse. A disease associated with homosexuality …show more content…
He has attended many Pride festivals to show support for the community in Arizona, California, Illinois, and Michigan. He also protested an anti-gay mayor in Troy, Michigan. He attended city council meetings to voice his opinions—the mayor was eventually recalled. He also married his partner in a conservative town— Erie, Pennsylvania. In addition, he has lent his support to friends and family that have had to go through the emotional coming out process. Shaun participated Affirmations of Ferndale, Michigan, a youth group that supported young people that were coming out and needed guidance. The youth group offered weekly meetings, adult mentors, sex education and crisis help. Therefore, Shaun has supported the community in many ways, and helped both young and old LGBTQ