Notable LGBTQ+ Figures
Dive into LGBTQ+ lives and stories! Discover diverse narratives, historical milestones, and contemporary voices celebrating resilience, struggles, and triumphs. Access resources, recommended readings, and educational materials to deepen your understanding of LGBTQ experiences.
Lucy Hicks Anderson (1886–1954) born in Waddy, Kentucky, Anderson was a transgender civil rights activist known for her resilience in the face of discrimination. Operating a successful brothel in Oxnard, California, she defied societal norms and legal challenges to assert her identity as a woman. Her activism paved the way for greater acceptance of transgender individuals.
Photo Credit:
Lucy Hicks with deputy sheriffs H.E. Bowman and Charles Salig, Ventura County, California, ca. 1945. Courtesy Museum of Ventura County (31155, 34147). Image Source
Leslie Feinberg (1949–2014) was a pioneering transgender activist and author, renowned for "Stone Butch Blues." Feinberg advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and intersectional solidarity. Their work continues to influence activism, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and challenging societal norms.
Photo Credit:
Anhamm, Ulrike. Leslie Feinberg. 1997, Image Source.
Barbara Gittings (1932–2007) was a pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist, notably challenging the classification of homosexuality as a mental disorder. Her advocacy played a crucial role in the early movement for visibility, equality, and social acceptance. Gittings's contributions have left a lasting impact on LGBTQ+ rights and representation.
Photo Credit:
Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library. "Barbara Gittings portrait, smiling" The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1973 - 1976. Image Source.
Marsha P. Johnson (1945–1992) was a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and central figure in the Stonewall uprising, igniting the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. As a transgender woman of color, she co-founded the Gay Liberation Front and STAR, tirelessly advocating for marginalized communities. Johnson's legacy inspires generations in the pursuit of equality and justice.
Photo Credit:
Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library. "Marsha P. Johnson pickets Bellevue Hospital to protest treatment of street people and gays" The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1968 - 1975. Image Source.
Dick Leitsch (1935–2018) was a pioneering American LGBTQ+ rights activist from Louisville, Kentucky. He played a significant role in the 1960s movement, notably leading the "Sip-In" at Julius' Bar in 1966, challenging laws against serving alcohol to gay people. Leitsch's lifelong activism helped advance LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance in the United States.
Photo Credit:
Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library. "Barbara Gittings and Dick Leitsch talking" The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1966 - 1967. Image Source.
Sylvia Rivera (1951–2002) was a transgender activist known for her role in the Stonewall uprising of 1969. Co-founder of the Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activists Alliance, she fought for transgender and homeless rights, emphasizing inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ movement. Rivera's advocacy pioneered progress in LGBTQ+ rights.
Photo Credit:
Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library. "Sylvia Rivera in front of fountain" The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1970. Image Source.
Bayard Rustin (1912–1987) was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement, celebrated for his strategic leadership and advocacy of nonviolent protest. He organized the 1963 March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic speech. Despite facing discrimination as an openly gay man, Rustin tirelessly fought for equality and justice.
Photo Credit:
Leffler, Warren K. Bayard Rustin. 1963, U.S. News & World Report, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.. Image Source.
Margaret Sloan-Hunter (1947–2004), a notable African American feminist and LGBTQ+ activist from Chattanooga, TN, co-founded the Combahee River Collective. As an openly bisexual woman, she advocated for intersectional feminism, addressing the interconnectedness of race, gender, and sexuality. Sloan-Hunter's work paved the way for greater inclusion in feminist and LGBTQ+ movements.
Photo Credit:
Lane, Bettye. Margaret Sloan-Hunter. . Harvard University, Schlesinger Library on the History of Women, Cambridge, MA. Image Source.
Gladys Bentley (1907–1960) was a pioneering African American blues singer, pianist, and entertainer known for her flamboyant style and gender non-conforming performances. Openly lesbian and cross-dressing onstage, she became an LGBTQ+ icon during the Harlem Renaissance, challenging societal norms and leaving a lasting impact on music and LGBTQ+ history.
Sweet Evening Breeze (1892–1983), born James R. Herndon, was a notable drag queen from Scott County, Kentucky. Their contributions to the drag community, through performances and advocacy, left a lasting impact. With talent and creativity, Sweet Evening Breeze captivated audiences, leaving a legacy as a beloved figure in drag entertainment.
Photo Credit:
Mother Of Us All. John Ashley. 1972. Collection of the Faulkner Morgan Archive. Image Source
Stormé DeLarverie (1920–2014) was a key LGBTQ+ rights activist, notably in the Stonewall uprising of 1969. Known as the "guardian of the lesbians," she fought discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. DeLarverie's courage and commitment to justice have left a lasting legacy in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Photo Credit:
Stormé DeLarverie. ca. 1950s. Image Source
John Early, from Nashville, Tennessee, is a versatile American comedian, actor, and writer. Known for his sharp wit and unique comedic style, Early has made a mark in film, television, and stand-up comedy. His performances often blend humor with keen observations, earning him acclaim and a dedicated following.
Photo Credit:
Gershoff, Gary. John Early. 2019. Image Source
Fortune Feimster (1980-) is a talented American comedian and actress. With her Southern charm and infectious humor, she has captivated audiences in stand-up comedy, television, and film. Feimster's comedic prowess and relatable storytelling have earned her widespread acclaim, establishing her as a beloved figure in comedy entertainment.
Photo Credit:
Fortune Feimster. 2022. Image Source
Leslie Jordan (1955–2022) was a beloved American actor and comedian, renowned for roles in "Will & Grace" and "American Horror Story." Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he earned acclaim for his comedic timing and Southern drawl. Jordan candidly addressed LGBTQ+ issues, advocating for visibility and acceptance, endearing himself to audiences worldwide.
Photo Credit:
Reynolds, Stefani, US actor Leslie Jordan arrives for the White House Correspondents' Association gala at the Washington Hilton Hotel , Washington, DC. 2022. Image Source
Christine Jorgensen (1926–1989) gained global attention in the 1950s as one of the first publicly transitioning transgender women in the United States. Her openness about gender confirmation surgery sparked conversations about gender identity, advancing acceptance and understanding of transgender individuals through her bravery and advocacy.
Photo Credit:
Christine Jorgensen. . Michael Orchs Archives. Image Source
Eureka O'Hara, also known as Eureka!, is an American drag queen from Johnson City, Tennessee. Rising to fame on "RuPaul's Drag Race," she's known for her charisma and fierce performances. Eureka advocates for body positivity and self-acceptance, continuing her successful career in drag through various TV appearances and live performances.
Photo Credit:
Ingram, Jonnie. Eureka O'Hara on season 1, episode 5 of "We're Here". 2020. Image Source
Billy Porter (1969-), is a celebrated actor, singer, and fashion icon. He gained fame with his Tony-winning role in "Kinky Boots" on Broadway, becoming the first black gay man to win a Tony Award. Porter's portrayal of Pray Tell in "Pose" further solidified his status. Known for his avant-garde fashion, he's also an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice.
Photo Credit:
Felipe, Santiago. Billy Porter. 2019. Image Source
Glenn Burke (1952–1995), a professional baseball player, was among the first openly gay athletes in MLB. Despite not publicly coming out during his career, he was open about his sexuality within the baseball community. Facing discrimination, he left the sport due to homophobia, leaving a pioneering legacy for LGBTQ visibility in sports.
Jason Collins is a retired NBA player known for being the first openly gay athlete in major American professional sports. He came out in 2013 during his playing career, sparking important conversations about LGBTQ inclusion in sports. Since retiring, he continues to advocate for LGBTQ rights.
Brittney Griner (1990-)is an American professional basketball player known for her dominance on the court. Standing at 6'9", she has redefined the game with her exceptional skills, athleticism, and shot-blocking ability. Griner's achievements include WNBA championships and Olympic gold medals, solidifying her legacy as a basketball icon.
Billie Jean King (1943-), a legendary American tennis player, won 39 Grand Slam titles and advocated for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. Coming out as lesbian in 1981, she was among the first openly gay athletes. King's activism and sporting achievements inspire generations globally.
Patricio Manuel (1985-), a pioneering transgender boxer, broke barriers in the sport by transitioning from female amateur boxing to becoming the first transgender male to compete professionally in the United States in 2018. Celebrated for his courage, Manuel challenges gender norms in sports, earning recognition as a significant LGBTQ figure
Michael Sam (1990-) is a former professional football player who made history as the first openly gay player to be drafted into the NFL. His bravery in coming out sparked conversations about LGBTQ+ inclusion in professional sports. Sam's story continues to inspire and advocate for acceptance and equality in athletics.
Joe Acanfora (1950-) gained national attention in the 1970s as one of the first openly gay teachers in the public school system. Despite facing discrimination and being dismissed from his job in Maryland, he continued his activism for LGBTQ rights in education. Acanfora's advocacy has inspired many and contributed to significant progress in promoting inclusivity and support for LGBTQ individuals in schools.
Judith Butler (1956-), a leading gender theorist, has profoundly influenced academia as an educator. Renowned for her work on performativity and gender identity, she has taught at prestigious institutions such as UC Berkeley. Through teaching and mentorship, Butler fosters critical engagement with complex issues, shaping generations of scholars and activists.
Willie Edward Taylor Carver Jr. is an educator, author, and LGBTQ advocate from eastern Kentucky. Through his collection "Gay Poems for Red States" and work with organizations like Kentucky Youth Law Project, he supports LGBTQ youth and promotes progress. As a Kentucky Colonel and Teacher of the Year, he fosters inclusivity and empowerment.
Alaine Jolicoeur, a Haitian-American educator, leads Rollins College's Social Justice Hub, advocating for diversity and social justice. Through initiatives like "Becoming Alaine," she inspires dialogue on identity and privilege, empowering students for change. Collaborating with local organizations, she champions marginalized populations, striving for a more equitable world.
Audre Lorde (1934–1992) was a pioneering poet, essayist, and activist, whose advocacy extended into the realm of education. As an educator, she emphasized inclusive pedagogy, encouraging critical thinking and social consciousness. Lorde's teachings left an indelible mark on generations, inspiring a commitment to equity and justice in education and beyond.
K.C. Potter (1939-), dean emeritus of residential and judicial affairs at Vanderbilt University, is a pioneering LGBTQ+ advocate who spearheaded initiatives promoting inclusion and support for marginalized students. As an influential figure in higher education, he fostered dialogue and implemented policies to create safer and more affirming environments for LGBTQ+ individuals. Potter's legacy continues to shape LGBTQ+ advocacy in academia.
Julien Baker, a Memphis native, is celebrated for her emotionally raw lyrics and haunting melodies. Her debut album "Sprained Ankle" catapulted her to acclaim in 2015. Grappling with themes of faith and identity, Baker's introspective songwriting in indie rock and folk music has garnered widespread recognition and a dedicated following.
Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990) was a renowned American composer, conductor, and pianist. His groundbreaking work spanned classical music, Broadway, and film, with iconic compositions like "West Side Story." Bernstein's passion for music education also left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations of musicians through his conducting, teaching, and advocacy efforts worldwide.
David Bowie (1947-2016) was an iconic English musician and actor known for his innovative contributions to rock music and avant-garde persona. With albums like "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars," Bowie redefined the boundaries of music, fashion, and identity, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture worldwide.
Shea Diamond (1978-), an American singer-songwriter from Little Rock, Arkansas, showcases her soulful voice and powerful storytelling. Her music delves into themes of resilience, identity, and overcoming adversity, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility as a transgender woman. With authenticity and emotional depth, Diamond has earned acclaim, recognition, and a devoted fan base.
Lesley Gore (1946-2015) was an American singer-songwriter renowned for hits like "It's My Party" and "You Don't Own Me." With her distinctive voice and empowering lyrics, she became a symbol of female independence in the 1960s. Gore's music continues to inspire generations with its timeless themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment.
Freddie Mercury (1946-1991) was a legendary British singer-songwriter and the charismatic frontman of the rock band Queen. Known for his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, Mercury captivated audiences worldwide with hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "Somebody to Love." His legacy as an icon of rock music endures, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike.
Isaiah Rashad (1991-), an American rapper from Chattanooga, Tennessee, gained acclaim with his debut mixtape "Cilvia Demo" in 2014. His introspective lyrics and blend of hip-hop and soul music resonate with audiences. As an openly bisexual artist, Rashad's candid reflections on addiction and mental health have earned him recognition as a compelling voice in contemporary hip-hop.
Jackie Shane (1940-2019), a pioneering transgender soul singer from Nashville, Tennessee, captivated audiences in the 1960s with hits like "Any Other Way." Her dynamic stage presence and powerful vocals challenged societal norms, paving the way for LGBTQ+ visibility in music. Shane's influence as a trailblazer in both music and LGBTQ+ history resonates today.
Bessie Smith (1894–1937), the "Empress of the Blues," hailed from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Rising to fame in the 1920s, her powerful voice and emotive performances earned her renown. Hits like "Downhearted Blues" made her one of the highest-paid African American performers. Smith's impact on music, including her documented relationships with both men and women, challenges societal norms, cementing her legacy as an iconic figure in blues history.
Chavela Vargas (1919-2012) was a Mexican singer known for her passionate interpretations of rancheras and boleros. She defied gender norms and became an LGBTQ+ icon. Vargas was openly lesbian, challenging conservative culture. Despite facing prejudice, she remained true to herself, inspiring generations with her music and courage. Her legacy resonates globally, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity.
Dr. Sara Josephine Baker (1873–1945) was a pioneering American physician and public health advocate. Renowned for improving child health and fighting infectious diseases in early 20th-century New York City, her innovative approaches and dedication to underserved communities set new standards for healthcare delivery, saving countless lives.
Dr. Emily Blackwell (1826–1910) was a pioneering American physician and women's rights advocate. She was the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States and played a significant role in opening doors for women in medicine. Blackwell's contributions to healthcare and gender equality remain influential today.
Dr. John Fryer (1937–2003), an American psychiatrist and LGBTQ+ rights activist, made history by anonymously addressing the American Psychiatric Association's 1972 meeting, advocating for removing homosexuality as a mental disorder. His courageous act advanced acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ individuals in psychiatry, leaving a profound legacy.
Dr. Alan L. Hart (1890–1962) was a pioneering American physician and radiologist. Among the first to undergo gender confirmation surgery, transitioning from female to male, his groundbreaking medical journey challenged societal norms, advancing understanding and acceptance of transgender identities.
Dr. Rachel Levine (1957-) is an American pediatrician and public health official. As the former Secretary of Health for Pennsylvania, she focused on addressing public health issues, including the opioid crisis and LGBTQ+ healthcare disparities. In 2021, she made history as the first openly transgender federal official confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
Dr. Louise Pearce (1885–1959) was a pioneering American pathologist known for her groundbreaking work in medical research and public health. She played a crucial role in developing a treatment for African sleeping sickness, saving countless lives. Pearce's contributions to medicine have left a lasting impact on global healthcare.
Dr. Georgina Somerset (1923–2013), a transgender dentist, was a trailblazer in dentistry and transgender rights activism. Advocating for inclusivity in healthcare, she inspired others in the transgender community and beyond. Somerset's journey exemplified resilience, determination, and a commitment to equality, leaving a lasting impact on both fields.
Sharice Davids (1980-) is a trailblazing politician and attorney. As one of the first Native American women elected to the U.S. Congress and the first openly gay representative from Kansas, she advocates for progressive policies and marginalized communities. Davids' leadership embodies resilience, diversity, and inclusive representation.
Olivia Hill, a transgender activist and educator from Nashville, TN, advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and transgender visibility. She is the first openly transgender woman to hold a political position in Tennessee. Focused on healthcare access and discrimination, she raises awareness and promotes inclusivity. Through her activism and leadership, Hill challenges stereotypes and works towards a more equitable and inclusive society.
Rosemary Ketchum, a transgender activist and politician from West Virginia, made history in 2020 as the state's first openly transgender elected official on the Wheeling City Council. Advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, affordable housing, and social justice, her election marked a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation, inspiring hope for inclusivity and equality.
Harvey Milk (1930–1978), California's first openly gay elected official, was a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist. His election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977 marked a milestone. Milk's advocacy and courage inspired greater visibility and acceptance, though his life was tragically cut short by assassination. His legacy fuels equality movements globally.
Mark Takano, the U.S. Representative for California's 41st congressional district, is the first openly gay Asian American in Congress. Advocating for healthcare, education, and civil rights, he's earned respect for his progressive values. Before Congress, Takano served as a teacher and on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees.
Dr. Ben Barres (1954–2017), a respected neurobiologist and transgender advocate, made groundbreaking contributions to neuroscience, particularly in glial cell research. As an openly transgender man, he championed diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, inspiring many with his research and advocacy for marginalized communities in science.
Dr. Nergis Mavalvala (1968-) is a Pakistani-American astrophysicist known for her pioneering work in detecting gravitational waves. She's openly lesbian and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in STEM. Mavalvala's research and advocacy have earned her prestigious awards, including a MacArthur Fellowship in 2010.
Dr. Sally Ride (1951-2012) was the first American woman in space. As an astronaut, physicist, and educator, she inspired millions, breaking barriers and encouraging young women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Ride's pioneering achievements continue to inspire future generations of scientists and explorers.
Dr. Audrey Tang (1981-), a Taiwanese digital minister, is known for her expertise in technology and open government. Identifying as pansexual, she advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. Tang focuses on using technology for transparency and civic engagement, playing a key role in Taiwan's digital innovation and policy development, earning international recognition.
Alan Turing (1912–1954) was a pioneering mathematician, computer scientist, and codebreaker. His crucial role in breaking the German Enigma code during WWII shaped modern computing and cryptography. Persecuted for his homosexuality, Turing's legacy as a brilliant mind and LGBTQ+ icon endures, despite his tragic death at a young age.
Dr. Bruce Voeller (1934–1994) was a pioneering biologist and LGBTQ+ rights activist. He co-founded the National Gay Task Force and played a crucial role in challenging discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Voeller's contributions to both science and advocacy have had a lasting impact on LGBTQ+ rights and public health initiatives.
Gilbert Baker (1951–2017) was an American artist and LGBTQ+ activist famous for creating the rainbow flag, symbolizing pride and diversity. Settling in San Francisco in the 1970s, he designed it for the Gay Freedom Day Parade in 1978, refining it to the iconic six-stripe design. Baker's flag remains a global emblem of LGBTQ+ pride and unity.
Alison Bechdel (1960-) is a renowned cartoonist and graphic memoirist from Pennsylvania, USA. Best known for her comic strip "Dykes to Watch Out For," she explores LGBTQ+ themes and feminism. Her acclaimed graphic memoirs, including "Fun Home" and "Are You My Mother?," delve into personal identity and family dynamics, earning numerous awards.
Beauford Delaney (1901–1979) was an African American from Knoxville, TN. He is associated with the Harlem Renaissance and abstract expressionism. Based in New York City and later Paris, he's known for abstract expressionist paintings exploring race, spirituality, and identity. Celebrated for bold use of color, his work advances representation of African American artists, leaving a lasting impact.
Keith Haring (1958–1990) was a pioneering artist and social activist, renowned for his bold, graffiti-inspired artwork. His iconic imagery, often depicting themes of love, unity, and activism, transcended traditional boundaries, inspiring generations. Haring's legacy continues to influence contemporary art and culture worldwide, advocating for social change through creativity.
Frida Kahlo (1907–1954), a Mexican artist celebrated for her emotive self-portraits and vibrant works, explored themes of pain, identity, and Mexican culture with raw honesty. As a bisexual icon, her art, steeped in surrealism and indigenous symbolism, inspires with its resilience and unapologetic exploration of the human experience.
Annie Leibovitz (1949-)is a legendary American portrait photographer celebrated for her iconic images of celebrities and cultural figures. Her bold and intimate style captures the essence of her subjects, shaping the visual landscape of contemporary photography. Leibovitz's prolific career spans decades, defining modern portraiture with unparalleled artistry.
Julie Mehretu (1970-), born in Ethiopia, is acclaimed for abstract paintings fusing architecture, geography, and history. Educated at Rhode Island School of Design, her work explores identity, globalization, and urbanization. Employing gestural marks, her compositions evoke contemporary complexity. Exhibited globally, Mehretu's art sparks dialogue on culture and the built environment.
Robert Rauschenberg (1925–2008) was a pioneering American artist, known for his innovative work across painting, sculpture, and printmaking. A leading figure in the Pop Art movement, his eclectic, boundary-pushing creations challenged conventional notions of art. Rauschenberg's interdisciplinary approach continues to influence contemporary artists, reshaping the landscape of modern art.
Steve Summers, a dynamic creative director and costumer, elevates storytelling through innovative designs and inclusive vision. Dolly Parton, an iconic singer-songwriter and actress, captivates audiences with her timeless style and larger-than-life persona, crafting unforgettable looks that define her legendary career on stage and screen.
Mickalene Thomas (1971-) is a contemporary African-American artist renowned for her vibrant, collage-inspired paintings and installations. Her work celebrates Black femininity, exploring themes of identity, beauty, and representation. Thomas' bold aesthetic challenges artistic conventions, fostering dialogue about race, gender, and sexuality in modern art.
Wu Tsang (1982-) is a groundbreaking artist and filmmaker known for their explorations of identity, politics, and queerness. Their multidisciplinary approach incorporates film, performance, and installation, challenging societal norms and advocating for marginalized communities. Tsang's work blurs the lines between documentary and fiction, inviting viewers to reconsider notions of reality and representation.
Kehinde Wiley (1977-) is a contemporary artist acclaimed for his vibrant, larger-than-life portraits that challenge historical and cultural narratives. Inspired by classical European art, he reimagines subjects, often people of color, in regal poses against colorful backgrounds. Wiley's work sparks conversations about race, power, and representation in the art world.
Dorothy Allison (1949-) is a celebrated American writer known for her candid exploration of class, sexuality, and Southern culture. Raised in South Carolina, her acclaimed novel "Bastard Out of Carolina" examines poverty and resilience in the South. Her works offer raw portrayals of marginalized communities, earning her widespread acclaim for her honest storytelling.
James Baldwin (1924-1987) was a prolific writer and influential voice in the civil rights movement. Through his novels, essays, and speeches, he addressed issues of race, sexuality, and identity with profound insight and eloquence. Baldwin's work continues to resonate, challenging societal norms and inspiring conversations about justice and equality.
Henrietta Bingham (1901-1968) was an American socialite known for her unconventional lifestyle and bisexuality. Hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, she navigated romantic relationships with both men and women during the early to mid-20th century, part of literary and artistic circles. Despite societal norms, her independent spirit left a lasting impact on her era's cultural landscape.
Louise Fitzhugh (1928-1974), born in Memphis, Tennessee, was an American author and illustrator renowned for "Harriet the Spy." Published in 1964, the novel's honest portrayal of childhood and themes of friendship and identity have resonated with generations, inspiring young readers worldwide. Fitzhugh's work remains a cherished cornerstone of children's literature.
Silas House (1971-) is a celebrated American writer, known for his insightful portrayal of Appalachian culture in novels like "Clay's Quilt" and "A Parchment of Leaves." His work explores human connections to nature, earning him acclaim in contemporary Southern literature. House, a playwright and writer-in-residence at Berea College, has received fellowships, including at LMU University.
Larry Kramer (1935–2020) was a leading LGBTQ+ rights activist, playwright, and author. Co-founding Gay Men's Health Crisis and ACT UP, he fought HIV/AIDS discrimination, advocating for treatment access. Fearlessly speaking out against government inaction, Kramer became a pivotal voice for LGBTQ+ rights and healthcare equality amid the AIDS epidemic.
Diandrea Rees (1977-), known as Dee Rees, is an esteemed American filmmaker from Nashville, Tennessee. Her debut feature "Pariah" and "Mudbound" gained acclaim for their nuanced portrayals of marginalized communities, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay. Rees is celebrated for her impactful storytelling and exploration of complex social issues.
Meredith Russo, an American author from Chattanooga, Tennessee, is acclaimed for her young adult novels delving into identity, gender, and adolescence. As a transgender individual, Russo draws from her experiences, notably in her debut novel "If I Was Your Girl," which won the Stonewall Book Award in 2016 for its poignant portrayal of a transgender teenage girl navigating love and acceptance in a small Southern town.
Ira Sachs, an acclaimed American filmmaker from Memphis, Tennessee, is celebrated for his sensitive portrayals of human relationships and LGBTQ+ themes in films like "Love is Strange" and "Keep the Lights On." His work explores love, identity, and family dynamics, earning him praise for authenticity and emotional depth, establishing him as a leading voice in independent cinema and LGBTQ+ representation.
Victoria "V.E." Schwab (1987-), an acclaimed American author from Nashville, Tennessee, gained prominence with her debut "The Near Witch" and her Shades of Magic series. Noted for her inclusive representation of LGBTQ characters, Schwab's imaginative storytelling and complex characters have earned her widespread recognition in contemporary speculative fiction.
Tennessee Williams (1911-1983) was a groundbreaking American playwright from Columbus, Mississippi. Known for exploring desire, repression, and sexuality, he drew from his own experiences as a gay man. His iconic plays like "A Streetcar Named Desire" earned critical acclaim, cementing his status as a leading playwright of the 20th century.