Alvin Ailey was born in 1931 in Rogers, Texas fighting stigmas and traumas associated with being a young black gay man in the South. Ailey sought dance as a way to express himself creatively and push the limits of society’s expectations of what a dancer looked like. After losing his life to AIDS related complications, his artistic legacy lives on inspiring hope and addressing stigmas associated with HIV to this day. Ailey chose not to publicly disclose his status until years later to shield his family from stigma. Today, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater honors his life with choreographed productions such as Home raising stories of people living with or affected by HIV to audiences.
Gilbert Baker, a visionary artist and LGBTQ+ activist, stands as a true hero within the community. As the creator of the iconic rainbow flag, Baker's indelible mark on the fight for LGBTQ+ rights cannot be overstated. His bold and vibrant creation quickly became a powerful symbol of pride, unity, and visibility for the community. Beyond his artistic contributions, Baker was deeply involved in grassroots activism, advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. He tirelessly dedicated his life to promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity. Baker's legacy continues to inspire countless individuals, reminding us of the importance of visibility, self-acceptance, and the ongoing fight for equality. His unwavering spirit and creative genius have forever shaped the identity and progress of the LGBTQ+ community, making him an enduring hero in the hearts and minds of millions.
James Baldwin, an iconic literary figure and social commentator, has emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community. As a gay African American writer during a time of widespread discrimination, Baldwin fearlessly confronted the complexities of his intersecting identities. Through his works, including "Giovanni's Room" and "Another Country," Baldwin explored themes of love, desire, and the struggles faced by queer individuals. He fearlessly challenged societal norms, advocating for the acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual orientations. Baldwin's unwavering commitment to truth and his unapologetic exploration of the human experience made him an undeniable hero for the LGBTQ+ community, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their identities and fight for equality. His legacy as a prominent voice for social change continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of art and activism in the pursuit of justice.
Gladys Bentley, (1907-1960) was a gender-bending performer during the Harlem Renaissance. Donning a top hat and tuxedo, Bentley would sing the blues in Harlem establishments like the Clam House and the Ubangi Club. According to a belated obituary published in 2019, The New York Times said Bentley, who died in 1960 at the age of 52, was "Harlem's most famous lesbian" in the 1930s and "among the best-known Black entertainers in the United States."
David Bowie, a legendary musician and cultural icon, stands as an enduring hero within the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout his illustrious career, Bowie fearlessly pushed boundaries, challenging societal norms of gender and sexuality. His androgynous appearance and provocative performances transcended conventions, offering a liberating and empowering representation for individuals across the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Bowie's unapologetic exploration of identity and his open discussions about his own bisexuality were groundbreaking in an era when such discussions were often taboo.
Wilson Cruz is an icon in the LGBTQ+ community. He is celebrated for his trailblazing advocacy and representation in the entertainment industry. His groundbreaking portrayal of Rickie Vasquez in the iconic '90s television series "My So-Called Life" marked a pivotal moment in queer representation on television, offering a nuanced portrayal of a gay teenager navigating the complexities of adolescence. In addition to his roles on screen, Cruz has been a dedicated activist, using his platform to champion LGBTQ+ rights and social justice causes. From speaking out against discrimination to advocating for HIV/AIDS awareness and education.
Dr. Joycelyn Elders, the first Black and second female US Surgeon General, has been a trailblazer in public health, particularly in addressing HIV and AIDS. Dr Elders committed to open conversations about sexual health and HIV prevention, which would later pave the way for more inclusive public health policies. Despite facing challenges during her tenure as Surgeon General, Dr Elders continued to bring controversial issues and progressive policies to debate.
Frankie Franklin-Foxx became an early advocate for other women living with HIV when she was diagnosed in the 1980s. In 1988, she became a founding member of the Chicago Women’s AIDS Project, a support group for women living with HIV. Her advocacy was highlighted by Oprah Winfrey, Dan Rather and the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Franklin-Foxx’s was an outspoken advocate for women willing to attend rallies in support of public policy and funds. She relentlessly used her voice to advocate for others up until her death in December 2023. Franklin-Foxx’s contributions to Black women living with HIV has impacted millions of lives throughout the United States and beyond.
Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, a trans activist that had been organizing on behalf of the trans community long before the night of Stonewall. The 80-year-old Black trans woman had faced down hate, violence, and adversity after coming out as a teen. Like many transgender women of color, she dealt with issues of abuse and homelessness, often turning to sex work when society rejected her. Griffin-Gracy was at Stonewall when police raided the bar, only to be met with unexpected resistance from the mostly queer patrons. Griffin-Gracy suffered a head injury and broken jaw at the hands of police during the melee but has continued to fight for justice since. She's also been instrumental in the early struggles against HIV, but focuses her efforts now to protecting young trans women through various projects including the organization she founded, House of GG. Her career was the subject of the 2015 documentary Major! which follows her activism in the trans community.
Lorraine Hansberry, a trailblazing playwright and visionary, stands as an inspirational LGBTQ+ hero. While her work primarily focused on racial and social justice, Hansberry's contributions to the arts and her personal life resonate deeply within the LGBTQ+ community. As a bisexual woman during a time of limited visibility and acceptance, she navigated multiple dimensions of identity with courage and authenticity. Her groundbreaking play "A Raisin in the Sun" addressed the experiences of Black families and received critical acclaim, solidifying her status as a pioneering African American playwright. Hansberry's own journey of self-discovery and the challenges she faced as a member of the LGBTQ+ community inspired her activism and commitment to equality for all marginalized groups. Her brilliance, artistic vision, and unwavering dedication to social justice make Lorraine Hansberry an enduring LGBTQ+ hero.
Keith Haring, a visionary artist and social activist, is remembered as an influential hero within the LGBTQ+ community. His vibrant and iconic artwork boldly expressed his identity as a gay man and fearlessly challenged societal norms. His art became a powerful vehicle for spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS during the height of the epidemic, conveying messages of love, compassion, and safe sex practices. Haring's advocacy extended beyond his art, as he actively supported various LGBTQ+ organizations and participated in activism to promote equality and fight against discrimination. His commitment to using art as a catalyst for social change and his unwavering embrace of his own identity continue to inspire generations of LGBTQ+ individuals. Keith Haring's legacy as an LGBTQ+ hero reminds us of the transformative power of art and the importance of using our voices to create a more inclusive and accepting world.
Langston Hughes, the famed Black gay author Langston Hughes rose to prominence both for his literary work and also as a leader in the Harlem Renaissance in pre-World War II New York City. Alienated from a distant father who disliked his own people, Hughes embraced his racial heritage as evidenced in his signature poem "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" where he recalls the history of Black people from the dawn of civilization until more recent times. While his homosexuality is accepted as truth by nearly all modern scholars, he remained closeted publicly at the time. His work centered his Black people and championed racial consciousness and identity, but Hughes also celebrated a diversity of oppressed communities.
Marsha P. Johnson, an indomitable transgender activist and prominent figure in the Stonewall uprising, stands as a revered hero within the LGBTQ+ community. With her vibrant personality and fierce determination, Johnson fearlessly fought against the systemic oppression faced by transgender individuals. As a co-founder of the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), she dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and well-being of homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Johnson played a pivotal role in the Stonewall riots of 1969. The riots marked a turning point in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement and solidified her legacy as a trailblazer. Her unyielding commitment to justice, along with her vibrant presence and compassionate nature, continues to inspire and uplift marginalized communities. Marsha P. Johnson's resilience, bravery, and unwavering activism remain an enduring symbol of hope and resistance, reminding us of the ongoing fight for equity and inclusion.
Magic Johnson, a celebrated American businessman and former professional basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr publicly announced his HIV diagnosis in 1991. Magic led to Los Angeles Lakers to 5 NBA championships before sharing his battle with HIV. Compounding the suffering of those afflicted with HIV was a lack of understanding and sympathy in public discourse; notions that Magic challenged everyday with his advocacy. He has since dedicated his life to battling the stigmas associated with the disease in the Black community.
Billie Jean King is renowned as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, King transcended the boundaries of her sport to become a trailblazing advocate for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. In 1981, she bravely came out as a lesbian, becoming one of the first openly gay athletes in history, at a time when such disclosure was met with significant stigma and discrimination. She used her platform to fight for equality and social justice, co-founding the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) and advocating for equal pay for female athletes. Her tireless efforts paved the way for greater acceptance and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in sports and society at large.
Audre Lorde is a remarkable figure in both the feminist and LGBTQ+ movements. She stands as an enduring hero whose impact reverberates through time. As a Black lesbian poet, essayist, and activist, Lorde fearlessly confronted the intersecting oppressions of race, gender, and sexuality. Her writings and speeches exuded a profound sense of self-acceptance, encouraging others to embrace their identities without compromise. Lorde's groundbreaking work, such as "Zami: A New Spelling of My Name" and "Sister Outsider," challenged societal norms and galvanized marginalized communities to reclaim their power. Through her unapologetic advocacy for the rights and dignity of all individuals, Audre Lorde continues to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on the struggle for LGBTQ+ equality and social justice.
Dr. David Malebranche, a prominent Black physician living with HIV, has been a tireless advocate for HIV awareness and education. As Senior Director of Global HIV Medical Affairs at Gilead, Dr Malebranche engages healthcare providers, systems and communities to improve the lives of people everywhere affected by HIV. Dr Malebranche uses his platforms to engage in open conversations, challenge misconceptions and foster empathy among the Black LGBTQ+ community. Through his platform, he aims to reduce stigma and promote treatment.
Harvey Milk, an influential and pioneering figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, shines brightly as an enduring hero for the community. As one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States, Milk fearlessly fought for equality, justice, and representation. Through his charismatic personality= and unwavering determination, he became a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Milk's tireless efforts in the Castro District of San Francisco, coupled with his passionate speeches and grassroots organizing, mobilized the community and gave hope to countless individuals. Tragically, his life was cut short by assassination, but his legacy as a symbol of resilience and progress lives on. Harvey Milk's indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to justice continue to inspire the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and serve as a reminder of the power of activism to create lasting change.
Harold Phillips is known for his unwavering commitment to advocacy and visibility. As an openly gay actor and activist, Phillips has fearlessly challenged stereotypes and paved the way for greater representation in the entertainment industry. In addition to his work in film and television, Phillips has been a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice causes. He has consistently used his platform to amplify marginalized voices and promote inclusivity. Phillips' unwavering dedication to authenticity and representation has inspired countless individuals, making him a true hero and role model for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
Billy Porter is a multifaceted artist, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the entertainment industry as an actor, singer and fashion icon. Porter has become an influential figure in the LGBTQ+ community and an advocate for inclusivity and acceptance. In 2021, Porter opened up about his HIV status sparking conversation on the importance of destigmatizing HIV. Porter stands as a beacon of strength, resilience and authenticity showing us all that HIV is not a barrier to living in truth and self-expression.
Ma Rainey was a liberated bisexual Black woman during a time of segregation and Jim Crow laws. Known as the "Mother of the Blues" for her role in bringing the musical genre to a wider audience, Rainey also made her mark standing up to the racist patriarchal system that sought to exploit her singing and identity. Born Gertrude Pridgett in 1886 or 1882 depending upon the source, Rainey got her start early singing and dancing as part of a traveling minstrel show as a young teen. She married William "Pa" Rainey, from whom she took her name, although the couple later divorced. Rainey later was rumored to have had an affair with singer Bessie Smith and her song "Prove It On Me Blues" became a bisexual anthem with its blatant references to same-sex attractions.
Sylvia Rivera, an unwavering transgender activist and fearless advocate, stands as an extraordinary hero within the LGBTQ+ community. As a self-identified drag queen and transgender woman of Puerto Rican and Venezuelan descent, Rivera played a pivotal role in the Stonewall uprising and the subsequent fight for transgender rights. She co-founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR), an organization that provided crucial support and resources to homeless transgender youth. Rivera's unapologetic voice and tireless dedication to amplifying the struggles faced by transgender individuals, particularly those who were marginalized within the larger LGBTQ+ movement, left an indelible mark on history. Her advocacy work, both within and outside of established LGBTQ+ organizations, paved the way for greater visibility and recognition of transgender rights. Sylvia Rivera's bravery, resilience, and commitment to the most vulnerable members of the community continue to inspire generations, embodying the spirit of true liberation and inclusivity.
Bayard Rustin, an extraordinary African American civil rights activist, serves as an exceptional hero within the LGBTQ+ community. Despite facing multiple forms of discrimination, including his identity as a gay man, Rustin played a pivotal role in organizing and strategizing key events in the fight for racial equality, such as the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. As an advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rustin's brilliant organizing skills and commitment to nonviolence were instrumental in shaping the civil rights movement. Despite the challenges he faced due to his sexual orientation, Rustin never wavered in his dedication to justice and equality. His contributions extended beyond the realm of civil rights, as he later became an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, including the fight against HIV/AIDS. Bayard Rustin's life and legacy continue to inspire and remind us of the power of intersectional activism, challenging us to strive for inclusivity and justice for all.
Barbara Smith once said she wants to be remembered "as someone who got the work done" and that pretty much describes the Black queer feminist author and activist. When the National Black Feminist Organization proved not radical enough, she and her like-minded activists formed the Combahee River Collective which centered lesbianism within the larger Black feminist movement. She also cofounded the Kitchen Table: Women of Color Press in 1980, the first United States publisher for all women of color to reach a large national audience.
