This Day in Queer History

On this day in 1929, Shakuntala Devi was born. Known as the 'human computer,' she wrote India's first study of homosexuality, treating queer lives with understanding and pioneering compassion.

On this day in 1933, Barbara Grier was born. She co-founded Naiad Press and built the world's largest lesbian publishing house, transforming a $2,000 investment into a literary revolution for queer women everywhere.

On this day in 1934, lesbian writer Patricia Elaine Gilmore was born in Toledo, Ohio. A former Dominican nun turned published author, she spent her life writing short stories, plays, and poems inspired by the California coast she loved.

On this day in 1946, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe was born. His unapologetic homoerotic work ignited a national debate over arts funding and forever changed how queer bodies were seen in fine art.

On this day in 1960, FDNY firefighter and LGBT activist Tom Ryan was born. A 9/11 hero, he fought tirelessly for the rights of LGBTQ+ firefighters and emergency workers, confronting homophobia in the fire services with uncommon courage.

On this day in 1980, Barney Frank was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Massachusetts. He served 32 years and became the most prominent openly gay politician in the United States.