This Day in Queer History

On this day in 1898, poet Elfie Gidlow was born. She published On a Grey Thread in 1923, possibly the first volume of openly lesbian love poetry in North America, and helped found a bohemian community in Marin County.

On this day in 1971, Wakefield Poole's Boys in the Sand premiered. The first gay film with credits and mainstream credibility, it prompted Variety to declare 'There are no more closets,' opening a bold new chapter in queer cinema.

On this day, Senator John McCain met with gay Republican state legislator Steve May, who was being discharged from the Army reserves. McCain stood by Don't Ask, Don't Tell but pledged to ensure May was treated fairly.

On this day, same-sex marriage took effect in Maine after voters approved it 53% to 47%, making it one of the first states to win marriage equality by popular vote.

Queer trailblazers didn't just dream big, they made those dreams happen. From Harvey Milk's mantra of hope to Christine Jorgensen's courage, their stories offer a roadmap for turning our own resolutions into reality.