This Day in Queer History

On this day, Henry David Thoreau wrote about same-sex love in his journal, noting that 'all romance is grounded on friendship.' Scholars continue to debate the transcendentalist's sexuality.

On this day, Audre Lorde was born. Self-described as 'Black, feminist, lesbian, mother, poet, warrior,' she became New York's Poet Laureate and took the name Gamba Adisa: She Who Makes Her Meaning Known.

On this day, Bringing Up Baby premiered with Cary Grant. The film marked the first time the word 'gay' was used in reference to homosexuality on the big screen.

On this day, 14 gay rights groups met for the first time in Kansas City, Missouri, forming the coalition that would become one of the movement's earliest national organizations.

On this day in 1974, members of GATE picketed the Ontario Human Rights Commission, demanding that gays and lesbians be included in human rights protections. The fight for inclusion was loud and visible.

On this day, Nancy Hamilton died. A playwright, lyricist, and lifelong partner of legendary actress Katharine Cornell, she left behind a creative legacy that included the beloved standard 'How High the Moon.'

On this day, Norma McCorvey, known as 'Jane Roe' in Roe v. Wade, died. After coming out as a lesbian and living for years with her partner Connie Gonzales, McCorvey's life reflected the complexity of identity, faith, and politics in America.