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”

1971: A Hotline, a Protest, and “Gay-In 2”

Picket line at SDPD, 1971. Lambda Archives of San Diego

In spring of 1971, Gay Liberation Front (GLF) came back to campus. On-campus status still officially revoked, the group began to operate meetings through a course called “The Homosexual and Society,” which was sponsored by the Experimental College. This loophole allowed GLF to use campus facilities and advertise to students, and Morris Kight, pioneer of… Continue reading 1971: A Hotline, a Protest, and “Gay-In 2”

1970: Community Groups and the First “Gay-In”

People picnicking in the park at the Gay-In. Lambda Archives of San Diego.

1970 was a turning point for the San Diego gay community, marking immense growth of organized activism and pride. Existing organizations evolved and new ones formed, coming together to plan public events in celebration of LGBTQ+ people for the first time. Gay Liberation Front (GLF) was approved as a recognized student organization by Associated Students… Continue reading 1970: Community Groups and the First “Gay-In”