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The Gay Rights Movement

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The Gay Rights Movement
Thesis Statement: The Gay Rights Movement dates back to the 19th century. By 1970 gay and lesbian organizations existed all over the United States and in other countries all over the world. Some supporters of the movement would say that our society as a whole has made great strides towards acceptance of homosexuality. However, gays and lesbians are still fighting for equality in 2009. The issues are vast and widespread, with same-sex marriage at the top of the list. In the world that we live in today one might be surprised to learn how many countries are accepting of gay and lesbians, as well as how many are not. The world has made progress within the last decade regarding this issue, but definitely not enough. We need to take steps to protect and balance Gay rights. The Untied States is a country that is more favorable towards gay men and lesbian women, but not completely. The Society for Human Rights in Chicago, Illinois was the first documented gay rights organization in the United States (“The American Gay Rights Movement”). This dates back to 1924. In 1951, The Mattachine Society was founded. This was the first national gay rights organization, founded by Harry Hay (“The American Gay Rights Movement”). Gays were pulled from military service during the 1950s and in 1953 gays were prohibited from Federal employment (“Milestones”). An FBI surveillance program followed, as homosexual acts were considered criminal. Additionally, the American Psychiatric Association listed homosexuality as a mental disorder until 1973 (“The American Gay Rights Movement”). The Stonewall Riots of 1969 was the most pivotal event in the Gay Rights Movement. Police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. For the first time, the patrons fought back and initiated a riot that lasted three days (“Milestones”). Following this event, gays throughout the United States were liberated. Throughout the 1970s many other organizations were formed and


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