This Day in Queer History

On this day, Esther Lape was born. A journalist and League of Women Voters co-founder, she shared her life and Greenwich Village home with partner Elizabeth Read, part of a close circle of lesbian couples around Eleanor Roosevelt.

On this day in 1904, Anna Rueling delivered the first political speech addressing lesbian oppression, urging feminists to unite with queer women and men. She is considered the first known lesbian activist.

On this day in 1958, Urvashi Vaid was born. From leading the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force to shaping global philanthropy, she became one of the most powerful voices in LGBT civil rights.

On this day in 1971, about 70 protesters held Sydney's first gay rights demonstration outside Liberal Party headquarters. Among them was pioneering activist and writer Dennis Altman.

On this day in 1985, Latina activists in Austin, Texas founded ALLGO, the Latina/Latino Lesbian and Gay Organization, creating vital space for queer Latinx community and advocacy in the heart of Texas.

On this day in 2003, Marco came out on Degrassi: The Next Generation, becoming the show's first gay character. Played by Adamo Ruggiero, the storyline brought queer youth visibility to a new generation.

On this day in 2020, the Council of Europe marked the 70th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights with a conference celebrating progress in LGBTI equality across the continent.