This Day in Queer History

On this day in 1760, Deborah Sampson Gannett was born. She disguised herself as Robert Shurtlieff to fight in the American Revolution, serving 17 months before receiving an honorable discharge from West Point.

On this day, nine leaders of the women's liberation movement, including Gloria Steinem and Susan Brownmiller, held a press conference in New York to express solidarity with the struggle of homosexuals. Feminism and gay rights stood together.

On this day in 1974, Sarah Paulson was born. The Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning actress has spoken openly about her fluid sexuality and her relationship with Holland Taylor, embracing love without labels.

On this day, the film Tootsie premiered. Dustin Hoffman starred as a struggling actor who disguises himself as a woman to land a role, sparking conversations about gender, identity, and the performances society demands.

On this day in 1990, three same-sex couples requested marriage licenses in Honolulu. A clerk initially agreed before a supervisor shut it down, planting early seeds for Hawaii's marriage fight.

On this day in 1990, Connecticut State Rep. Joseph Grabarz came out, becoming the state's first openly gay legislator. At the time, he was the partner of playwright Harvey Fierstein.

On this day in 1990, OutRage held its Christmas celebration for London's extended queer family in Covent Garden, turning the holiday season into a moment of community and belonging.

On this day, Patricia Ireland, president of the National Organization for Women, came out as bisexual. She publicly acknowledged her female companion while remaining married to her husband, challenging rigid labels.

On this day, British Secretary of State Chris Smith wrote a letter of apology to the Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association after their remembrance wreaths were removed following a ceremony of remembrance.

On this day, New Jersey granted same-sex couples the right to jointly adopt children under an agreement with state child welfare officials, expanding family recognition for queer parents.

On this day in 2007, Parliament granted registered partners nearly all spousal rights, with exceptions for adoption, IVF access, surrogacy, and surname changes. Progress with caveats.