This Day in Queer History

On this day in 1739, Eleanor Butler was born. She and Sarah Ponsonby, the Ladies of Llangollen, scandalized and fascinated society by sharing their lives for over 50 years. They are buried together in Wales.

On this day in 1933, Father Mychal Judge was born. The beloved, openly gay FDNY chaplain died administering last rites at the World Trade Center on 9/11. The law named for him became the first to extend federal death benefits to same-sex partners.

On this day in 2010, hundreds of gay, lesbian, and straight veterans descended on Capitol Hill to lobby for the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. The law was repealed the following year under President Obama.