1972-73: The Center is Born and the Final “Gay-In”

Organizers in front of the Center for Social Services, 1973. Lambda Archives of San Diego

In 1972, Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) continued to hold services and events and the Catholic support group Dignity returned to San Diego. The Monday Night Lesbians also formed in the early 1970s. Significantly, Stephen Bell and Jess Jessop of the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) attended a national conference in Chicago organized by the Gay Activists… Continue reading 1972-73: The Center is Born and the Final “Gay-In”

1969: The Turning Point

Gay Liberation Front Statement of Purpose in The Prodigal, 1970. Lambda Archives of San Diego.

On June 28th, 1969, a raid on New York City’s Stonewall Inn escalated into a riot that lasted for days. Fed up with regular harassment, patrons of the gay bar refused to cooperate with police during the raid. News of this victory spread and inspired the gay community throughout the country to organize, forming activists… Continue reading 1969: The Turning Point