By James Hannum

A police raid at the Stonewall Inn, in New York City, on June 28, 1969, set off a series of protest demonstrations by the gay community that are called the Stonewall riots or Stonewall uprising. These protests were an important catalyst to the gay liberation movement and the fight for LGBT rights. In the decades prior to the Stonewall riots, gays and lesbians faced severe social and legal discrimination. Within months of the Stonewall uprising, gay activist organizations were formed and LBGT friendly newspapers started to promote gay rights. A year after the uprising the first gay pride marches took place in NYC.

A lot has changed since June 28, 1969. On the 52nd anniversary of the Stonewall uprising we honor the many people who have fought for basic LGBTQ social and civil rights over all these years. Please reflect on the importance of our continued struggle on June 28.