LGBTQ Heritage

"The world changes in direct proportion to the number of people willing to be honest about their lives." -- Armistead Maupin

As America’s storytellers, the National Park Service (NPS) is committed to telling the history of all Americans in all of its diversity and complexity. For many years, the rich histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer Americans have been erased through punishing laws and general prejudice—appearing sporadically in police proceedings, medical reports, military hearings, and immigration records.

Yet, for many LGBTQ groups, preserving and interpreting their past has been an important part of building communities and mutual support. Because of their efforts, we can find LGBTQ histories across the United States—from private residences, hotels, bars, and government agencies to hospitals, parks, and community centers. From the mujerado of the Acoma and Laguna tribes to the drag queens of the Stonewall riots, discover their stories in our nation’s parks, homes, and historic sites. Read more »

Celebrate Pride!

Click here for the audio described version of World AIDS Day: Gilbert Baker and the Rainbow Flag.

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Duration:: 11 minutes, 59 seconds

This World AIDS Day we collaborated with Golden Gate National Recreation Area to tell the story of artist and activist Gilbert Baker! The LGBTQ+ community has a long history of intertwining art and protest to combat discrimination and erasure. Please enjoy our program about how the Rainbow Flag and Gilbert Baker showcases this connection from San Francisco to New York City.

Explore LGBTQ Heritage

LGBTQ Heritage
Places

Learn about parks and other places associated with LGBTQ history in America
LGBTQ Heritage
People

Learn about LGBTQ people and their role in American history
LGBTQ Heritage
Theme Study

LGBTQ history is American history. Read "LGBTQ America: A Theme Study of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer History" here
LGBTQ Heritage
Pride Guide

An interactive workbook to accompany the theme study or to use on its own
LGBTQ Heritage
Stonewall Storytime

This teen+ program offers a Stonewall Uprising narrative plus guidance to facilitate a conversation about universal themes and values.
LGBTQ Heritage
Education Resources

Education resources on LGBTQ history and heritage in the United States
LGBTQ Heritage
Additional Resources

Find more resources here about LGBTQ history and heritage