The history of the LGBTQ+ community is filled with moments of struggle, resilience, and groundbreaking victories that have shaped the rights and freedoms many enjoy today.
While there is still work to be done, every milestone in the fight for equality has helped push society forward, making it safer and more accepting for future generations. From brave protests to major legal changes, these moments have paved the way for progress. Even if you’re straight, here are 10 key milestones in queer history that everyone should know.
1. The Stonewall riots (1969)
Before 1969, being openly queer was risky. Police frequently raided gay bars, arresting patrons simply for being themselves. But when officers raided the Stonewall Inn, a bar in New York City, the community fought back in a way that had never been seen before.
The riots that followed lasted for days and sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, inspiring activism worldwide. Stonewall is still seen as one of the most defining moments in queer history, marking the start of Pride as we know it today.
2. The first Pride march (1970)
One year after Stonewall, activists organised the first Pride march in New York City, which at the time was called the Christopher Street Liberation Day March. It was a bold, unapologetic statement that queer people would not be silent or ashamed.
What started as a protest has grown into an annual global celebration of identity, visibility, and love. Pride events now take place in cities across the world, serving as both a reminder of past struggles and a celebration of progress.
3. The decriminalisation of homosexuality in the UK (1967)
For much of the 20th century, being gay in the UK was illegal, and people could be arrested, imprisoned, or even chemically castrated simply for who they loved. That finally began to change with the Sexual Offences Act of 1967, which partially decriminalised homosexuality in England and Wales.
It was a step forward, but it didn’t grant full equality. Scotland followed in 1980, and Northern Ireland in 1982. It would take decades for LGBTQ+ people to gain full legal protections, but this was a critical turning point in shifting attitudes and laws.
4. Harvey Milk gets elected to office (1977)
Harvey Milk made history as one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States when he won a seat on San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors. He was a passionate advocate for queer rights and fought for equality in housing, employment, and representation.
Tragically, he was assassinated in 1978, but his impact was lasting. His activism inspired generations of LGBTQ+ politicians and community leaders, proving that visibility in government was not only possible but essential for change.
5. The AIDS crisis and ACT UP (1980s-1990s)
When HIV/AIDS began devastating the LGBTQ+ community, the government’s response was slow and often dismissive. Many people suffering from the disease faced stigma and discrimination instead of receiving the medical care they needed.
In response, activist groups like ACT UP (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) demanded action, organising protests and advocating for faster drug research. Their efforts helped speed up treatment development, changed public perception of HIV/AIDS, and saved countless lives.
6. The end of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (2011)
For years, queer people serving in the U.S. military had to hide their identities under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. If they were outed, they risked being discharged, regardless of their qualifications or service record.
In 2011, the policy was finally repealed, allowing LGBTQ+ service members to serve openly without fear of discrimination. It was a huge victory for equality in the military and a step toward recognising queer rights in all areas of life.
7. Same-sex marriage is legalised in the U.S. (2015)
After years of legal battles and state-by-state victories, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2015 that same-sex couples had the right to marry nationwide. The decision, known as Obergefell v. Hodges, was a major win for LGBTQ+ rights.
It meant that all couples, regardless of gender, had the same legal recognition and protections, including benefits like hospital visitation rights, adoption, and inheritance. The ruling was a long-overdue step toward true marriage equality.
8. The Gender Recognition Act in the UK (2004)
The UK made history with the Gender Recognition Act, which allowed trans people to legally change their gender on official documents. Before this, trans people often faced major legal and social barriers when trying to live as their true selves.
While the law was groundbreaking at the time, activists continue to push for improvements, such as making the process easier and more inclusive for non-binary and gender-diverse people.
9. Ireland becomes the first country to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote (2015)
In 2015, Ireland made history as the first country to legalise same-sex marriage through a public referendum. Over 60% of voters supported the change, reflecting a major shift in attitudes in a country with deep religious roots.
The overwhelming support was a moment of celebration and showed that progress was happening, even in places where LGBTQ+ rights had long been restricted. It also set a precedent for other nations considering similar measures.
10. The global push for LGBTQ+ rights
In recent years, more countries have taken steps to protect queer people, including legalising same-sex marriage, banning conversion therapy, and strengthening anti-discrimination laws.
While there is still a long way to go, the global movement for LGBTQ+ rights continues to grow. Activists, allies, and communities worldwide are working to ensure that future generations have the freedom to love and live openly, without fear or discrimination.
