This Day in Queer History

On this day in 1899, actor Charles Laughton was born. He built a brilliant career as a character actor while his wife Elsa Lanchester lovingly acknowledged his affairs with men in her biography.

On this day, Sylvia Rivera was born. The transgender activist and self-identified drag queen co-founded STAR with Marsha P. Johnson to shelter homeless young trans women of color. 'I am Sylvia Rivera,' she said. 'I just want to be who I am.'

On this day, the Lutheran Church in America expressed opposition to discrimination and oppression of gay men and lesbians at its Fifth Biennial Convention. A major denomination took a public stand for queer dignity.

On this day, figure skater Johnny Weir was born. A two-time Olympian, three-time U.S. champion, and beloved commentator, Weir brought unapologetic queer visibility to the world of competitive sports.

On this day in 1989, IRS employees in the National Treasury Employee's Union won a new contract that included protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation.

On this day in 2009, the Delhi High Court decriminalized same-sex acts in India, striking down a 148-year-old colonial law and affirming fundamental rights to personal liberty and equality.