Stonewall Riots
The Stonewall Riots in New York City marked a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, sparking widespread activism and leading to the first Pride marches, thereby significantly contributing to Queer recognition.
1969
1973
Homosexuality Declassified as Mental Illness
The American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, a landmark decision that advanced Queer recognition and reduced stigma.
1978
Introduction of the Rainbow Flag
The rainbow flag, designed by Gilbert Baker, was first flown at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade, becoming a global symbol of LGBTQ+ pride and Queer recognition.
1987
AIDS Memorial Quilt Unveiled
The AIDS Memorial Quilt was displayed for the first time in Washington, D.C., raising awareness about the impact of AIDS on the LGBTQ+ community and fostering greater Queer recognition.
1993
“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Policy Implemented
The U.S. military adopted the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which allowed gay and lesbian individuals to serve as long as their sexual orientation was not disclosed, a controversial step in the journey toward Queer recognition.
2000
Civil Unions in Vermont
Vermont became the first U.S. state to recognize civil unions for same-sex couples, marking a significant milestone in Queer recognition and legal rights.
2003
Lawrence v. Texas
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Lawrence v. Texas that sodomy laws were unconstitutional, a major victory for Queer recognition and the decriminalization of same-sex relationships.
2010
Repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
The U.S. Congress repealed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, allowing gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals to serve openly in the military, further advancing Queer recognition.
2012
First Openly Gay U.S. Senator Elected
Tammy Baldwin was elected as the first openly gay U.S. Senator, representing Wisconsin, a significant step in political Queer recognition.
2013
DOMA Struck Down
The U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), ensuring federal recognition of same-sex marriages and advancing Queer recognition in the legal system.
2015
Obergefell v. Hodges
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right, a landmark decision for Queer recognition and marriage equality.
2017
First Openly Transgender State Legislator Elected
Danica Roem was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, becoming the first openly transgender person to be elected and serve in a U.S. state legislature, marking a significant moment in Queer recognition.
2020
Bostock v. Clayton County
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects LGBTQ+ employees from workplace discrimination, a major victory for Queer recognition in employment rights.
2021
First Openly LGBTQ+ Cabinet Member Confirmed
Pete Buttigieg was confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ person to serve in a U.S. presidential cabinet, enhancing Queer recognition in government.
2023
Increased Global Recognition of LGBTQ+ Rights
Several countries, including Switzerland and Chile, legalized same-sex marriage, reflecting the growing global trend towards Queer recognition and equality.
