Gay Resistance: The Hidden History

by Sam Deaderick, Tamara Turner

Literary Nonfiction. Gay and Lesbian Studies. Both newcomers and veterans, students and teachers, will benefit from this pithy booklet--a classic of the 1970s--which reviews the legacy of queer defiance and proposes bold strategies for achieving the rights of lesbians/gays/bisexuals and transgender people. The authors pinpoint the origins of homophobia and tell the story of those who fought back: from German organizers in the 1860s, to the homophile pioneers of the 1950s Mattachine Society; from the youth and drag queens of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion, to the Gay Liberation Front and the eruption of lesbian feminism in the 1970s. The role of lesbians and gays of color is acknowledged and the work of groundbreaking lesbian writers is discussed. The weakness and strengths of various campaigns for sexual freedom are evaluated. The book includes an introduction by University of Washington Associate Professor Roger Simpson, author of the history An Evening at the Garden of Allah. A wide-ranging bibliography points readers toward further information on the LGBT struggle.

Genres: LGBT, History, Nonfiction

56 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1997

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

For its size, there was a fair amount of information packed in. It isn't very in depth but can give readers a general overview and history of how people accept(or not) different sexualities through the ages and how queer people have fought for equality. I read the 1997 version, which in reading it in 2020 there are many additions that could be made. Africa was not mentioned which was disappointing. Overall a decent read for someone looking for a quick summary that is easy to read.

[Dáithí's · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an awesome little read that is actually a reprint of an earlier booklet. Sad how narrow-minded bigotry and prejudice stands the test of time. The book gives a nice, concise history and overview of the struggle for gay rights. Well written and short enough to be read in a short amount of time.

I use this as an introduction to my social justice speaking engagements and classes. It packs a lot of information in a small package.