The Gay Liberation Movement: Before and After Stonewall

by Sean Heather K McGraw

This book explains the emergence of the modern gay liberation movement, from its early years prior to the Stonewall riots of 1969 and its continuation into the 1970s. Readers will learn about the Stonewall riots, the Compton's cafeteria riot, the Gay Liberation Front, the Lavender Menace, and more. This book also discusses the contributions of important people such as Harvey Milk, Audre Lorde, and many others. The difficulties and legacies of that era will become clear to students who may know only the outline of the early history of the movement.

112 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2019

Reviews

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book laying out a timeline of the gay liberation movement. Gave good details about the pivotal events, offering primary documents but also secondary accounts. At times offered some conflicting accounts but then recapped with details that all accounts agreed upon. Offers definitions of many labels used during the 60s-80s, and what those labels are today. Avoids bias and influence, offering facts and details. Lots of acronyms to try and track, which made some parts choppy. Highlights and explains many important figures of the movement during this time period. Good factual reference piece for MS and up.

[Michelle Glatt · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a thorough overview of the movement, but some parts seemed very acronym and organization heavy. The parts with quotes and testimonials were more effective.