UPDATE: The latest installment of “Our America: Pride in History V” is shedding light on remarkable trailblazers who have championed LGBTQ+ inclusivity across the United States. This year’s celebration highlights a diverse array of figures, including historians, church leaders, and community spaces, making it essential viewing for anyone invested in equality.
Among the featured individuals is El Daña, the nation’s oldest drag king, who has been captivating audiences for decades. Elsie Saldaña, the Mexican-American performer from Fresno, California, shared, “When I’m on stage, I forget about everything else. I focus on my performance, and I feel like a star.” At the age of 80, Saldaña continues to break barriers in a rural landscape that often overlooks LGBTQ+ voices.
The exhibit at the New York Historical Society is another highlight, showcasing the impactful work of acclaimed photographer Fred W. McDarrah. His images chronicle pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ civil rights throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Curator Marilyn Kushner emphasized the importance of this history, stating, “There was a lot of creative activity going on in Greenwich Village, where many queer people felt safe.”
In Raleigh, North Carolina, the Legends Nightclub has served as a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ culture for nearly 40 years. Manager Trevor Keller remarked, “LGBTQ+ history is American history.” This vibrant venue not only provides a welcoming space for the community but also houses the St. John’s Metropolitan Community Church, a beacon of inclusivity.
Meanwhile, in Houston, Texas, the radio broadcast “Queer Voices” has been a lifeline for the LGBTQ+ community for decades, even facing violent opposition. Host Deborah Bell recounted the station’s tumultuous history, including a bombing by the KKK. “I want to teach the next generation how to hone their narrative,” she stated, underscoring the importance of storytelling in the movement.
The significance of inclusivity is further highlighted by Rikki’s Sports Bar in San Francisco, named after pioneering figure Rikki Stryker. Co-founder Sara Yergovich noted, “We don’t define ourselves as a lesbian bar, but we’re lesbian-owned and named after a historic lesbian in the Castro.”
Additionally, a transformative Holy Year pilgrimage, organized by Father James Martin and others, marked a new era of acceptance within the Catholic Church. Martin described the emotional gathering, stating, “The message I got from Pope Leo XIV was that his approach to LGBTQ Catholics is about openness and welcome.”
Historian John D’Emilio, who has dedicated five decades to studying LGBTQ+ history, emphasized the necessity of maintaining this narrative. “Keep making the effort to make this history available,” he urged, amid nationwide challenges to LGBTQ+ rights.
As “Our America: Pride in History V” unfolds, it serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance in America. This compelling series not only celebrates achievements but also inspires future generations to continue the work of trailblazers who have come before them.
Don’t miss this critical viewing—watch “Our America: Pride in History V” now and reflect on the stories that shape our history.
