Resolution introduced to commemorate Stonewall’s big Four-O
May 13, 2009
June 28th is the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots - a critical milestone in the birth of the LGBT rights movement (and for those readers interested, it also happens to be your dutiful blogger's birthday). Today Reps. Nadler, Baldwin, Frank and Polis introduced a resolution in the U.S. House to recognize the anniversary. "The events at Stonewall 40 years ago had a profound effect on how LGBT Americans came to see their struggle for equality," said Rep. Nadler. "Stonewall catalyzed gay Americans - and those who support their rights - into putting gay rights on the forefront, out in the open, unafraid and unapologetic. We have come very far in the battle for LGBT rights and acceptance since Stonewall, but we still have a ways to go. Together, we will keep fighting." "Stonewall was a moment in time that sparked a movement," said Rep. Baldwin. "We honor all those who stood their ground at Stonewall as we carry on their quest for full and equal rights for all Americans." "As we move ahead in the movement for legal equality, it is important to remember those who had the courage to fight hard when things were much tougher," said Rep. Frank. "With President Obama, the Democratic Congress, and the nation at our side, we are facing an incredible, historic opportunity for change for the LGBT community," said Rep. Polis. "But we cannot go forward without being mindful of where we've been. Stonewall brought the gay rights movement to the forefront of American culture and gave rise to the vibrant and politically active LGBT community that we have today. Our job now is to pick up where they left off and to provide equal rights for all Americans." I'd also note that it was our transgender brothers and sisters who were are the forefront of the uprising at Stonewall and started our community down the path toward equality on which we walk today.
