The Stonewall Inn, located in New York City's Greenwich Village, was a haven for LGBTQ+ people in the late 1960s. Back then, homosexuality was illegal and gay bars were frequently raided by police. 

On June 28, 1969, a routine raid on Stonewall turned violent. Patrons, fed up with years of harassment, fought back against the police, igniting six days of riots known as the Stonewall Riots.

This wasn't the first LGBTQ+ protest, but the Stonewall uprising became a turning point.

Stonewall became a symbol of resistance, and every year, Pride parades around the world celebrate the progress made and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ equality.

The fight for LGBTQ+ rights has a rich history paved by brave individuals and groups. From the Stonewall riots to ongoing battles for equality, these activists pushed the movement forward. Scroll on to learn more about these leaders of change.

Marsha P. Johnson, a gay rights activist and drag queen, was a key figure in the Stonewall riots. She co-founded the activist group STAR with Sylvia Rivera and was a founding member of the Gay Liberation Front.

Sylvia Rivera, a transgender activist at Stonewall, championed LGBTQ+ rights, especially for the marginalized. She co-founded a shelter for homeless LGBTQ+ youth, leaving a powerful legacy of inclusivity.

Founded by Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, STAR was a radical group fighting for transgender rights, especially transgender women of color. They provided housing and support services.

Formed in 1969 after Stonewall, the GAA was a major early LGBTQ rights group in New York City. They focused on lobbying for legal changes and educating the public.