This Week in Queer History

Janis Joplin was not just a rock legend; she was a trailblazer. Her secret romance with Peggy Caserta shattered norms, while her powerful voice transformed music forever. Delve into their clandestine connection, its role in queer visibility, and its lasting influence. #LGBTQ #MusicLegend

Uncover how queer surrealists Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore transformed artistry into a form of rebellion against Nazi tyranny. Their bold, clever stunts left a mark on history—let this tale awaken the rebel within you! #QueerHistory #ArtAsResistance

Meet Willem Arondeus, the openly gay artist who fearlessly resisted the Nazis by using his artistic skills to shield thousands from persecution. His inspiring tale shows how being true to oneself and brave can alter history! #Courage #LGBTQHistory

Discover the secret world of 1920s speakeasies, where queer joy thrived during Prohibition. From lively drag shows at Rockland Palace to Ma Rainey’s queer blues, these hidden havens celebrated music, defiance, and unity. A tribute to resilience and rhythm that invites you to dance. #QueerHistory

Step into 1920s speakeasies, where queer joy thrived during Prohibition. From drag events at Rockland Palace to Ma Rainey's queer blues, these sanctuaries offered music, defiance, and belonging. Celebrate this resilient legacy! #QueerHistory #Prohibition

Throughout history, queer identities have often been shrouded in secrecy. From 18th-century figures like Princess Seraphina to the secret ads of the 1920s, pseudonyms allowed LGBTQ+ individuals to thrive and express themselves. Discover how these names have been acts of liberation. #LGBTQ

Uncover the hidden roots of LGBTQ+ rights—long before Stonewall, the Mattachine Society courageously laid the groundwork for the freedoms enjoyed today. This is the crucial queer history often left out of classrooms! #QueerHistory #LGBTQ+

In 1979, over 100,000 LGBTQ+ individuals and allies gathered in Washington, D.C., turning local activism into a national movement for equality. Figures like Audre Lorde and the Salsa Soul Sisters made a lasting impact. Let's revisit the first National March for Gay and Lesbian Rights. #LGBTQ

Queer libraries, hidden in homes, shops, and catalogs, formed a bold resistance network. From Hirschfeld’s destroyed books to ONE Magazine’s legal triumph and the Lesbian Herstory Archives, discover how these narratives endured. Today's book bans make this battle crucial. #QueerHistory #LGBTQ

LGBTQ+ families have redefined "parent" from guardianship battles to Supreme Court wins. In this episode, I explore these achievements and how a stepfather showed me true family is about presence. Join for insights on law, love, and bravery. #QueerFamily #FamilyLove

Before apps, The Damron Guide was a covert travel book helping LGBTQ+ people find safety and community. This episode tells the daring story of Bob Damron, a gay bar owner who secretly charted queer sanctuaries across America—a tale of history, heart, and pride. #LGBTQHistory #Pride

Thought Stonewall was the start of LGBTQ resistance? Reconsider. In 1959, in LA, brave queer individuals wielded coffee cups and courage outside a donut shop, igniting a revolution. This is the tale of the Cooper’s Donuts Uprising, deserving of more recognition. #LGBTQHistory #CoopersDonuts

In the days before Grindr and Instagram, the queer community sought solace in clandestine spots called Molly Houses. These havens, run by fearless figures like Mother Clap, provided support amidst oppressive laws. Discover Margaret Clap's inspiring role in 18th-century London! #LGBTQHistory #Pride

In 1904, Anna Rüling declared, "I am a lesbian," marking her as the first openly lesbian activist. Long before rainbow symbols, Pride events, or legal protections, she championed our cause. Uncover the daring tale history almost forgot and why her bravery still resonates. #LGBTQHistory #Pride

In 1904, Anna Rüling boldly declared, “I am a homosexual woman,” becoming the first openly lesbian activist in history. Long before rainbow flags, Pride, or legal protections, she championed our cause. Uncover the daring tale history tried to hide and why her bravery still resonates. #LGBTQHistory

Imagine if Marsha P. Johnson, Harvey Milk, and Christine Jorgensen set 2026 goals! This Queer History episode blends "what ifs" with true LGBTQ history, showing how pioneers turned dreams into impactful actions. Get inspired with resolutions to change lives. #QueerHistory #NewYearsResolutions

Delve into Alfred Kinsey's pioneering research, which transformed our perception of sexual diversity and the acceptance of identities. #SexualDiversity #Kinsey

Imagine Marsha P. Johnson, Harvey Milk, and Christine Jorgensen crafting New Year’s goals for 2026. This lively Queer History episode mixes intriguing "what ifs" with authentic LGBTQ history, showing how these icons transformed dreams into impactful actions. Walk away inspired! #QueerHistory #LGBTQ

Imagine if Marsha P. Johnson, Harvey Milk, and Christine Jorgensen penned their New Year's resolutions for 2026. This lively Queer History episode mixes intriguing "what ifs" with real LGBTQ history to show how these pioneers turned dreams into transformative actions. #QueerHistory #Inspiration

Discover the hidden gay history in holiday traditions. From ancient celebrations to Oscar Wilde's green carnation and chosen-family gatherings, delve into the LGBTQ influences woven into Christmas and Hanukkah. Let's embrace the festive spirit with pride! #LGBTQHistory #HolidayTraditions

LGBTQ symbols like Oscar Wilde’s green carnation and chosen-family gatherings now enrich the festive season. My uncle's choir performance highlighted his authenticity, celebrating traditions that once excluded him. #LGBTQHistory #QueerHolidays #ChosenFamily #FestiveSpirit #InclusiveTraditions

History isn't just in museums; it lives in items, art, music, and moments that led our community from darkness to light. In this episode of This Week in Queer History, we uncover unexpected "treasures" that shaped LGBTQ+ life—from ancient artifacts to Pride symbols to powerful anthems. #QueerHistory

The festive season has long embraced queerness, with hidden codes and symbols subtly interwoven into Christmas and Hanukkah. From ancient rituals to Wilde's green carnation and chosen-family gatherings, discover the LGBTQ history in plain sight. #QueerHolidays #LGBTQHistory

Journey back to Egypt's 5th Dynasty, around 2400 B.C., to explore the tomb of NeeyanKanum and KanumHotep in Saqqara. These figures could be the earliest known same-sex couple, offering a glimpse into LGBTQ history. #AncientEgypt #LGBTQHistory

Departing was challenging, yet it revealed my authentic self. Listen to your intuition and seek a welcoming place. #AdventureAwaits

Such a great convo with these two from @stfrom60kly.bsky.social reminded me why I love sci-fi so much!

Watching "Philadelphia" in high school exposed me to the harsh reality of the AIDS crisis. Growing up gay in the 90s made intimacy daunting. The film motivated me to support my community and stay safe, vowing not to let fear block my path to love. #OvercomeFear #FindLove

In 1943, Willem led a daring operation to attack Amsterdam's public records office. Disguised as a German officer, he and his team destroyed around 800,000 identity documents, crucial for Nazi tracking. This act likely saved many by obstructing Nazi efforts to identify Jews and others. #WWII #Brave

Michelangelo emerges as a queer icon through his poetry for Tommaso Cavalieri, revealing romantic feelings. Some works were later altered—revisionism! Despite sodomy laws, Florence had nuanced views on queerness. His art and writings reflect deep admiration for the male form. #QueerArtHistory

Here’s a snippet from a letter Emily Dickinson wrote in 1852, revealing sentiments that surpass mere roommate camaraderie. #EmilyDickinson #Letters