LGBTQ+ Women in History (who we should know)

LGBTQ+ Women in History We Should Know

The contributions of LGBTQ+ women throughout history are profound and far-reaching, spanning fields from politics and art to science and activism. Their stories are essential to understanding how the LGBTQ+ community has fought for visibility, acceptance, and rights over time. As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s important to shine a light on these incredible individuals who have shaped history and laid the groundwork for the progress we see today. By reflecting on their lives and achievements, we not only honor their legacy but also reinforce the importance of continuing their fight for equality, diversity, and inclusion in our world.

1. Audre Lorde: The Warrior Poet

Audre Lorde, a self-described “Black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet,” used her voice to challenge oppression. Her work, which explored themes of identity, intersectionality, and justice, made her a powerful figure in feminist and civil rights movements.

  • Read her work: Start with Sister Outsider, a collection of essays and speeches available through your local library or online retailers like Bookshop.org.
  • Learn more about her activism: Check out the documentary A Litany for Survival: The Life and Work of Audre Lorde (available on Kanopy or for purchase).
  • Explore her legacy: The Audre Lorde Project continues her advocacy for LGBTQ+ people of color.

Lorde’s writing challenged not just sexism and racism but also homophobia and classism. Her essay The Master’s Tools Will Never Dismantle the Master’s House is a timeless critique of systemic oppression and a call to radical change. Her commitment to advocating for marginalized communities reminds us that true progress requires intersectional action.

2. Marsha P. Johnson: The Activist Who Sparked a Movement

Marsha P. Johnson was a Black transgender woman and drag performer whose activism played a vital role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Johnson was one of the prominent figures in the Stonewall uprising of 1969, a pivotal event in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality.

  • Dive deeper into her story: Watch the Netflix documentary The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson.
  • Support her legacy: The Marsha P. Johnson Institute works to protect and defend the human rights of Black transgender people.
  • Historical context: Learn about the Stonewall uprising at the Stonewall National Monument.

Johnson’s activism extended to grassroots efforts, including helping homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Her courage in the face of systemic discrimination exemplifies the resilience of LGBTQ+ women who have led the charge for equality.

3. Dr. Sara Josephine Baker: A Medical Pioneer

Dr. Sara Josephine Baker, an early 20th-century physician, dedicated her life to improving public health, particularly for women and children. Her work drastically reduced infant mortality rates in New York City, saving countless lives.

  • Read her autobiography: Fighting for Life is a fascinating glimpse into her career and impact.
  • Explore her influence: The National Women’s History Museum offers a detailed profile on her achievements.

Baker’s life partner, Ida Alexa Ross Wylie, was a prolific author in her own right, showing how queer women supported and inspired each other in times of societal rejection. Their partnership reminds us that love and collaboration can flourish even under challenging circumstances.

4. Radclyffe Hall: The Literary Trailblazer

Radclyffe Hall, an English novelist, broke barriers with her 1928 novel The Well of Loneliness. The book, which features a lesbian protagonist, was groundbreaking in its candid portrayal of same-sex love.

  • Read the novel: The Well of Loneliness is widely available and often included in lists of must-read LGBTQ+ literature.
  • Contextualize her work: Check out the BBC documentary Queer as Art for insights into LGBTQ+ representation in the arts.
  • Engage in analysis: The Lesbian Herstory Archives houses resources on Hall and other literary trailblazers.

Hall’s courage in publishing such a controversial work during an era of extreme censorship opened doors for later LGBTQ+ authors. Her book, while banned in several countries, was a spark for conversations around LGBTQ+ visibility in media.

5. Barbara Gittings: The Mother of the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

Barbara Gittings devoted her life to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly within the realm of libraries and literature.

  • Learn about her achievements: Visit the Barbara Gittings Collection at the Free Library of Philadelphia (link here).
  • Watch her activism in action: The PBS documentary Before Stonewall includes her contributions to LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Explore LGBTQ+ literature resources: Organizations like the American Library Association's Rainbow Round Table continue her mission.

Gittings’ advocacy was instrumental in declassifying homosexuality as a mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association in 1973. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence in fighting systemic injustices.

6. Billie Jean King: A Champion On and Off the Court

Tennis legend Billie Jean King is not only one of the greatest athletes of all time but also a trailblazer for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

  • Read her memoir: All In offers a personal look at her journey as an athlete and activist.
  • Explore her impact: The Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative supports diversity and inclusion in workplaces.
  • Watch her story: The film Battle of the Sexes dramatizes her iconic tennis match and fight for equality.

King’s impact transcends sports, showing how queer visibility can drive meaningful societal change. Her foundation continues to empower women and LGBTQ+ individuals across industries.

7. Chavela Vargas: The Voice of Rebellion

Chavela Vargas, a Mexican singer known for her passionate ranchera music, defied traditional gender norms throughout her life.

8. Lorraine Hansberry: The Visionary Playwright

Lorraine Hansberry, best known for her play A Raisin in the Sun, was also a committed LGBTQ+ activist.

9. Sappho: The Original Queer Poet

Sappho, an ancient Greek poet, is one of the earliest known figures to express same-sex love in literature.

  • Read translations of her work: Collections like If Not, Winter by Anne Carson make her poetry accessible to modern audiences.
  • Explore her impact: The Poetry Foundation offers essays and resources on Sappho’s legacy.
  • Learn about ancient LGBTQ+ history: The British Museum and similar institutions provide context for queer figures from antiquity.

10. Stormé DeLarverie: The Guardian of the LGBTQ+ Community

Stormé DeLarverie, a biracial lesbian entertainer and activist, played a pivotal role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

  • Watch her interviews: Videos like Stormé: The Lady of the Jewel Box (available on YouTube) showcase her story.
  • Visit Stonewall-related sites: Learn more about her contributions at the Stonewall National Monument.

Support modern LGBTQ+ guardians: Organizations like The Center in NYC continue her work by offering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and adults.

Honoring Their Legacy

Each woman on this list reminds us of the strength, creativity, and resilience needed to break barriers and create lasting change. They defied societal norms, challenged oppressive systems, and paved the way for greater acceptance and equality. Their stories are not just LGBTQ+ history; they are universal stories of courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of authenticity. These women inspire us to honor diversity, embrace inclusion, and continue fighting for justice in all its forms. By learning about their lives and legacies, we ensure their voices echo through generations, motivating us to create a more equitable and compassionate.

In this Together,

The Every Woman is Worthy Team
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