Stonewall Riots: Celebrating the Role of Trans Women in the LGBTQ+ Movement

Recently, there have been some unsettling changes stirring up anger in parts of our community. The government has quietly removed vital mentions about trans people from important historical landmarks. The Stonewall National Monument, which honors those pivotal riots, has seen its website revised in a troubling manner, leaving out transgender individuals who played key roles in that chapter.

why stonewall matters

It was back on June 28, 1969, in New York City when Stonewall became a turning point in history. This isn't just any date; it's when Pride Month was born and when a fight transformed a movement. But now, by changing how this monument presents its story online, leaving out LGBTQ+ in favor only mentioning LGB, they're ignoring those trans heroes who were essential.

People like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera aren't just footnotes—they were trailblazers. You can't tell Stonewall's story without highlighting their courage and leadership. Despite any attempts at erasure, they stood at that frontline, bold and undeniable. They helped ignite a revolution that called out loud and clear: everyone in this community deserves rights and recognition.

that unforgettable night at stonewall

So what went down on that epic night? The scene was set at Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, a bar frequently targeted by police raids. Only this time, things played out differently. Frustrated by constant harassment, patrons decided enough was enough.

Picture this: a butch lesbian, possibly Stormé DeLarverie, stands her ground and gets hit by an officer. Her fiery shout stirred something in those gathered, and suddenly resistance sparked. What followed was a flurry—coins, bottles—you name it, all hurled at police by those who'd had enough.

When Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera arrived, chaos had already begun, but they weren't bystanders. Myths about "who threw that first brick" aside, what matters most was their presence, their leadership, and their relentless push towards justice that night and beyond.

the lasting impact

The days that followed were nothing short of monumental. This wasn't just about standing up; it was about defying. The first Pride marches ignited a year later—on June 28, 1970—in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. These weren't just parades; they were declarations.

Johnson and Rivera didn't stop there. They co-founded STAR (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries), a beacon supporting homeless transgender youth. Their tirelessness set a foundation not just in history books, but in hearts and movements that grew from their legacy.

Recognizing trans women's contributions at Stonewall isn't just about getting history right; it's about ensuring everyone feels included in this fight against discrimination. The Stonewall Inn isn't a relic—it's a symbol, a testament, a living challenge.

Attempts at rewriting history can't be ignored or tolerated. It misleads and weakens our path forward. We have a duty—a responsibility—to hold onto Stonewall's true narrative with both hands.

keep fighting: trans rights matter

By acknowledging trans women's roles in Stonewall, we don't just honor history; we empower today's struggle. Fighting inequality didn't stop back then, and Stonewall's spirit echoes every time someone stands up, marches, or demands justice.

The LGBTQ+ rights movement owes much more than gratitude. Trans individuals' contributions are woven throughout its history, and forgetting them simply isn't an option. As we celebrate Pride, let it be with a nod, a thanks, and a continued fight, because it never was just a moment. It was a catalyst.

The Stonewall riots weren't some isolated event; they were a flashpoint that lit up a movement still shaping our lives. Reflecting on this legacy isn't a choice; it's a promise. To tell it truthfully and keep striving until every member, no matter who they are, gets their due.