This Day in Queer History

On this day, Edward Carpenter was born in Brighton. The socialist poet and early gay rights advocate lived openly with his partner George Merrill for over three decades. Their relationship inspired E.M. Forster's novel Maurice.

On this day, Me'Shell NdegéOcello was born. The openly bisexual singer, songwriter, and bassist became the first female artist signed to Madonna's Maverick label, earning respect as one of music's most fearless voices.

On this day, 250 people marched from Times Square to Greenwich Village in what became known as "The Forgotten Riot." When police raided a bar called The Haven, demonstrators fought back in hours of street battles.

On this day, the First National Conference of Lesbians was held in Guadalajara, Mexico, uniting the movement and creating the National Coordination of Lesbians ahead of a major regional feminist conference.

On this day, 29 people staged a silent demonstration at St. James Cathedral in Brooklyn to protest Bishop Thomas Daily's pastoral letter opposing anti-gay bias laws.

On this day, Jim McKnight discussed his research on BBC's Science Now, presenting evidence from the University of Western Sydney suggesting that homosexuality may be an inherited trait.