HIS100 Final Project Stonewall Rebellion
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The Stonewall Rebellion
Kelli A. Davis
Southern New Hampshire University
HIS100: Perspectives in History 100
Dr. Peggy Macdonald
The Stonewall Rebellion
Part 1
Assumptions, values, and beliefs influence Stonewall:
In choosing the topic for this project, I needed to pick something I found interesting and connected with for the entire term. In reading about the Stonewall Rebellion, many factors struck
a chord when we selected topics. Choosing to study the Stonewall Rebellion was motivated by my desire to learn about the important historical events that have shaped the world we live in today. I believe that studying this event can help us better understand the struggles faced by the LGBTQ community and how we can work toward building a more inclusive and supportive society. Recognizing the significance of this event is important as a member of society and in support of the LBGTQ community. It’s essential that we continue to learn from the events, the impact, and the outcome to move forward with greater awareness, compassion, and understanding of others within society and our communities today (Onion et al., 2017). When I entered high school in my small hometown, I noticed the emergence of the LGBTQ movement. Supporting those who identified as LGBTQ became important to me. My younger brother had always been gay but had yet to come out, so I was always aware of the discrimination, harassment, hate, and stigma happening toward the LGBTQ community in trying
to protect him. LGBTQ members should be shown the same level of respect and decency as any other individual, group, or community within our society. Safety, security, and social justice are crucial for LGBTQ individuals who face stigma, discrimination, and harassment due to their gender identity or sexual orientation. LGBTQ individuals are simply trying to live their lives like
the rest of us. Whether or not I agree with everything about their lifestyle, it's not for me to decide how they should live. I can, however, decide how I act or respond to how I feel about it. Discrimination, hate, stigma, and judgment can impact individuals in various ways and should be
considered, especially when approaching this topic. I greatly respect the courage and perseverance displayed by marginalized communities as they continue their fight for rights and recognition. This momentous event paves the way for future generations to continue fighting for equality and justice. As someone who values and appreciates the importance of these struggles, I am eager to explore the topic of the Stonewall Rebellion further.
Impact of Personal Perspectives and Opinions on the Stonewall:
It is crucial to acknowledge that my personal views and opinions can significantly
influence how I approach studying the Stonewall Rebellion. Therefore, evaluating and analyzing these perspectives can help me gain a more thorough and unbiased understanding of this historic event. It's essential to bring attention to the potential bias I may possess regarding this event due to my belief and support for LGBTQ rights because of my brother. This bias could impact how I analyze and interpret sources and data related to the events and situations that took place. My responsibility is to remain objective, exercise critical thinking, and ensure that my assessment is fair and accurate. I am committed to providing an unbiased evaluation and maintaining high professionalism in my work. In support of social justice, I understand the importance of addressing all critical elements of the rebellion. While the fight for equality is undoubtedly significant, I must ensure that I take a comprehensive approach and give due consideration to any
other vital components as well. By doing so, I can contribute to the movement's overall success and make a meaningful impact towards achieving the shared goals. It is also important to understand that my values can significantly influence how I perceive and interpret the actions of those involved in the rebellion. The Stonewall Rebellion was a pivotal moment in history for the LGBTQ community. It changed society's perception of "homosexuality" and those who fought for equal rights and LBGTQ freedom. To promote inclusivity, kindness, and unconditional love, avoiding assumptions and having an open mind when discussing sensitive topics is important.
My strong belief in the value of courage influences my perspective on certain actions. While personal values can shape my outlook, it is important to remain objective and consider all relevant factors when interpreting the information during my research.
To address any potential impacts, I will make every effort to remain impartial, consult a range of sources, and carefully evaluate all information found. It is worth remembering that while personal perspectives and opinions can offer valuable insights, they must not take precedence over facts or hinder alternative perspectives. Significance of the historical research question:
My research question is, “What were the societal impacts of the Stonewall Rebellion on the modern-day movement for equal rights of LGBTQ members? Observing my brother’s journey toward accepting his sexual orientation and identity has taught me valuable lessons about cultivating empathy and understanding for the LGBTQ community. In a time of increasing awareness for LGBTQ rights and equality, it is essential to foster a culture of compassion and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of sexual
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orientation. As we work toward creating a more inclusive society, it is important to approach these issues with sensitivity and respect, recognizing the unique challenges and experiences faced by members of the LGBTQ community.
Witnessing such a significant amount of discrimination, harassment, and disrespect toward members of the LGBTQ community and those who were coming out was difficult. People were committing suicide or attempting to due to the stereotyping and stigmatizing that was taking place, the significant amount of pain that was being caused by society, and their unwillingness to evaluate their own biases and feelings relating to the LGBTQ community. Religion and culture are two other factors that helped shape my beliefs and feelings about the LGBTQ lifestyle community and rights. I was raised in the LDS (Latter Day Saints/Mormon) Religion. Growing up in the church, we were taught that same-sex marriage was a sin and that you would be sent to hell if you acted out on feelings toward the same sex. When the LGBTQ movement started to surface, the church began excommunicating people for being attracted to the same sex, for “committing a sin,” because they were gay and acting on their feelings of attraction. Shaming individuals for something beyond their control is unacceptable. The LGBTQ community has suffered significant damage over the years, and it will take considerable effort and time to address and repair the harm caused. We must strive to promote an inclusive, accepting, and respectful environment that values diversity and celebrates the unique contributions of all individuals. Together, we must create a more welcoming and supportive community and society for everyone.
Having a strong research question allows for exploring how societal attitudes and norms can change over time. The Stonewall Rebellion took place at a time when homosexuality was still classified as a mental illness and had been criminalized, and LGBTQ individuals were facing widespread discrimination. By examining the societal impacts of the LGBTQ movement, we gain insight into how these attitudes have shifted and what factors contributed to these changes. My research question highlights what role activism has in effecting these societal changes. The Stonewall Rebellion was a response to police harassment and discrimination, which sparked the movement that has led to significant advancements in LGBTQ rights. This can serve as a powerful reminder of the potential impact of public activism (Onion et al., 2017). Last, my research question is significant because it provides valuable context for understanding the ongoing struggle for the LGBTQ community, the fight for rights and equality, and the other
contributing factors to societal change. Using Sources: A thorough analysis and evaluation of primary and secondary sources is imperative to finalize a research question. These sources provide the necessary evidence to strengthen or challenge my research question. Primary sources are essential for research as they offer direct, first-hand evidence or original data supporting research inquiries. These sources include interviews, diaries, letters, original documents, and raw data that have not been interpreted or analyzed. Primary sources can significantly impact or challenge a research question. First-hand accounts from individuals affected by an event can reinforce the argument. On the other hand, if the first-hand account or source contradicts the initial assumptions, it is necessary to revise the research question. Thus, it is crucial to prioritize using primary sources to achieve a more precise
and dependable research outcome. (U Mass Boston, 2024) Secondary sources also offer valuable insights for research as well. They are interpretations or analyses of primary sources and provide context and interpretation supporting my research question. For instance, because my research question is centered around the Stonewall Rebellion, human rights, and equality, I can use scholarly articles, biographies, book chapters, or essays to analyze the event and add additional evidence to my argument. Secondary sources can also pose challenges to research questions. Reviewing the interpretations and analyses is crucial to identify any contradictions in the initial assumptions, ensuring the accuracy
and validity of the findings.
(
U Mass Boston, 2024
)
The sources I used during my research are: Primary Sources
Martin Duberman: Excerpt from Stonewall
Queens in Exile, The Forgotten Ones.
Marc Stein: A Theory of Revolution for the Riots.
The Stonewall Riots: A Documentary History
The Equality Act
House Passes The Equality Act: Here’s What it Would Do.
House passes Equality Act aimed at ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Secondary Sources
Marsha P. Johnson (1945-1992)
Sylvia Rivera (1951-2002)
Laura Belmonte: Stonewall Riots
Jessica Stewart: How the Stonewall Riots Forever Changed History
How Primary and Secondary Sources Strengthened Research Question:
A clear perspective of the Stonewall Rebellion, its historical background, and its impact is essential to understanding its meaning and significance in the modern-day LBGTQ movement and the fight for equal rights. My research question is centered around understanding the impact the Stonewall Rebellion had societally and in the LGBTQ community. Analyzing, evaluating, and exploring the long and short-term impacts and effects through primary and secondary sources is essential to help finalize and answer my research question. The primary sources I listed were used to support my research in the following ways:
Martin Duberman: Excerpt from Stonewall:
This source is filled with personal narratives and eyewitness accounts from the individuals involved in the events. It's an invaluable resource that provides a deeper understanding of the event and helps you connect with the experiences and emotions of those involved. (Duberman, 2007)
Queens in Exile, The Forgotten Ones:
This source provides the personal story of Sylvia Rivera, one of the respected, notable LGBTQ community members and leaders during the Stonewall Rebellion. Personal stories and experiences are important in research as they provide an authentic aspect of the event and another perspective on who an individual might be. Sylvia Rivera shares her experience in a way that allows us to hear the voices of many other LGBTQ members who may be underrepresented, giving them and the LBGTQ community a voice. This source opens our eyes to the social norms and LBGTQ culture during the 50s and 60s and much of the pain that was felt across their community. In sharing her perspectives and experiences, this
source supports my research and the experiences of LGBTQ individuals, their struggles, and contributions to the movement, ultimately providing a more comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand (Nestle et al., 2002).
Marc Stein
: A Theory of Revolution for the Riots:
The article on the Stonewall Riots, offers varied perspective that encompasses historical, social, and political contexts, enabling me to understand the broader implications and significance of the events more comprehensively. By utilizing Stein's framework, I gained valuable insights about some of the underlying causes of the
riots, the social and political atmosphere that led to them, and the lasting impact they had on the
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LGBTQ community and society. Stein offers the perspective of analyzing the riots in relation to other significant events in the fight for LGBTQ rights. I have found Stein's work to allow me to delve deeper into the complexities of the Stonewall Riots and gain a more in-depth understanding of the significance (Stein, 2019b).
The Stonewall Riots: A Documentary History:
To conduct a thorough investigation of the Stonewall Rebellion, I utilized Stein's primary source, which is a combination of eyewitness accounts that provides valuable insight into the event and the social, cultural, legal, and political impact, influence, and outcome. This source provided an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the Stonewall Riots and its impact on society, individual members, and the LBGTQ community through careful analysis. Incorporating this source is crucial as it has a wealth of knowledge and information that can provide insight in many ways toward my research both before, during, and after the event (Stein, 2019a). To answer my research question about the impact of the Stonewall Rebellion on the LGBTQ community and society today, I researched multiple current-day sources. This helped me to gain a better understanding of the political and social context surrounding the Rebellion and the implications it has had. The Human Rights Campaign explained the Equal Rights Act and the provisions and implications expected in depth. (The Human Rights Campaign, 2023) NPR's article delved into the political dynamics involved in the passage of the Equal Rights Act's
House and its potential impact on different sectors of society. (Kurtzleben, 2021) CNN's news report provided current information and diverse viewpoints, including feedback from various stakeholders. (Diaz & Grayer, 2021) These sources provided valuable insights, enabling us to comprehend the topic better, gain new perspectives, and identify areas that required further exploration. This helped refine and finalize my research question through the information provided.
In the secondary sources I used for my research, I gathered more context on the Stonewall Rebellion and background information on present individuals. The articles about Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera are secondary sources that provide biographical information about both women. The biographies provide context and background information that helps to understand the LGBTQ lifestyle, community, and events that took place throughout their lifetime. Their experiences, upbringing, culture, and race offer different perspectives on living life as an LGBTQ member, drag queen, and transgender while sharing similar experiences
of the events of the Stonewall Rebellion and its impact on society in a broader context. Enhancing the quality of my research, considering the unique personal background details of Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, can provide a valuable context and deeper understanding of the broader topic of the Stonewall Rebellion. Incorporating their perspectives enriches the analysis's scope and depth while acknowledging significant historical figures' distinct voices and contributions. Referring to the work of Laura Belmonte, Stonewall Riots, also adds to my research. Her historical analysis of the event presents a valuable resource that provides evidence to support my research question. Utilizing her work allows for a deeper understanding of the incident and its significance and presents a well-informed interpretation. Laura Belmonte's historical analysis of the Stonewall Riots offers an insightful perspective, shedding light on its context and significance. Her detailed examination of the historical record provides a more distinct understanding of the riots. It can be a valuable resource for anyone exploring the event from different angles. Considering Belmonte's analysis alongside other interpretations of the Stonewall Riots, we can gain a more comprehensive and well-informed perspective on this pivotal moment in LGBTQ history. (Belmonte, 2016)
Jessica Stewart’s How the Stonewall Riots Forever Changed History
offers a comprehensive understanding of the cultural significance of the Stonewall Riots in her insightful article. In her analysis, she delves into the historical context and events leading up to the riots and their long-lasting impact on society and the LGBTQ community. Her work presents a unique
perspective that could be valuable to anyone researching the topic further. Her detailed analysis is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand this pivotal historical moment. Jessica Stewart discusses the cultural impact of the Stonewall Riots, which can provide valuable insights into how the event influenced society and popular culture. By examining the various ways, the riots have been represented and interpreted over time, it is possible to shed light on their lasting significance and relevance to contemporary issues. In this context, the cultural impact discussed by Stewart can serve as a valuable framework for justifying the importance of my research question and contributing to a deeper understanding of the historical and social context of the Stonewall Riots. Evaluating a source's credibility and reliability with secondary sources is also crucial (Stewart, 2023).
Part Two
Building Context to Address Questions
Context of a historical event:
The Stonewall Rebellion, also known as the Stonewall Riots, was a series of unplanned demonstrations carried out by members of the LGBTQ community in response to a police raid that took place in the early hours of June 28th, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn, situated in Greenwich Village, New York City. The historical significance of the Stonewall Inn riots in 1969 can be attributed to the societal attitudes towards homosexuality in the mid-20th century. During this time, homosexuality was considered a mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association and had been criminalized nationwide. This led to fear, insecurity, and distrust to be created within the LGBTQ community itself. In the 50s and 60s, law enforcement would go into bars undercover as a means of entrapping gay men and charging them with solicitation. Gay bars were a safe place for many of the LGBTQ members in the community. (Stewart, 2023) The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is a highly regarded advocacy and lobbying organization in the United States dedicated to promoting LGBTQ rights. The HRC is actively involved in various initiatives, including lobbying for legislation that supports the LGBTQ community, providing resources and support for individuals, and raising awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ community. The origins and ongoing work of the HRC can be traced back to the Stonewall Rebellion, which is widely acknowledged as a turning point for the LGBTQ rights movement and led to the formation of several organizations, including the HRC. The historical context of the Stonewall Rebellion has influenced the HRC in several ways. (The Human Rights Campaign, 2023)
Despite some progress, discrimination against the LGBTQ community persisted. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is committed to combating this discrimination. The organization engages in legal advocacy, lobbying for laws and policies that protect LGBTQ rights. This work directly responds to the legal oppression that sparked the Stonewall Rebellion. Furthermore, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) offers assistance and resources to LGBTQ individuals and communities, emphasizing the solidarity within the community that was a crucial
part of the Stonewall Rebellion. The historical context of the Stonewall Rebellion has significantly impacted the current fight for equal rights led by organizations like the HRC.
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How the historical event connects to current event:
Marc Stein notes in A Documentary History: The Stonewall Riots,
“Even if we could travel back in time and transport ourselves to the Stonewall Inn in the early morning hours of 28 June 1969, our experiences and accounts would likely differ based on…” Stein (2019). Marc lists
the different cultural identities, social roles, community networks, a person’s presence, abilities or disabilities, and many other factors related to personal experience. “But if we put together a collection of documents and sources, assess their plausibility and credibility, consider their standpoints and perspectives, and evaluate their value and meaning, we can develop compelling interpretations and persuasive analyses.” Stein (2019)
The Stonewall Rebellion was a pivotal historical moment that significantly changed society, politics, and the economy. The importance of interpersonal connections and relationships with others, and how they impact society, communities, and personal environments,
was highlighted as a result of that morning. The controversial situation brought activists together from movements such as Black Power, feminism, and gay liberation. With a larger purpose and focus, everyone involved could learn from one another. The Gay Rights Movement gained momentum as a result of the Rioting between LGBTQ members and police. It is crucial to understand how this event has shaped the world we live in today. The impact of the Stonewall Rebellion cannot be overstated, and it is essential to recognize its significance in our lives. If we look at the issues surrounding LGBTQ treatment at the time of the Stonewall Riots, there was systemic and structural oppression taking place across our nation. (Stein, 2019a)
Homosexuality had been criminalized, condemned as a sin, and seen as a defect by many.
Individuals were being discriminated against in public, at work, at school, and in the healthcare system. Individuals of color, sex workers, and drag queens were being targeted by the local police and dealing with hate, discrimination, disrespect, and harassment and were even arrested. On the other hand, those who were white males were more easily able to slip away, evading arrest. After a few days of defiance and push-back between both sides, hundreds gathered to seek
retribution towards police further to mitigate the cost the bars made each time they were raided by law enforcement. This behavior only continued to build stamina, with police hitting and beating individuals with nightsticks. Police then retreated to the Stonewall Inn. The riots lasted over a week with an overwhelming sense of anger, leading the LGBTQ community to build strength of force against the police. In large numbers, the demonstrators fought back against the
discrimination, hate, and inequality occurring presently and worldwide. (Duberman, 2007) June is recognized globally as Pride Month, a time for the LGBTQ community to celebrate their identity and diversity. During this month, the community advocates for their rights and raises awareness while showing support for each other. It is a time of unity and inclusivity where the voices of the community are heard, and their presence is acknowledged with respect and acceptance. “While so many important victories have been won by the gay community in the last few decades, it wasn't so long ago that things were quite different” (Stewart, 2023).
Participation of Historical Group or Figure: Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera were key figures in the Stonewall Riots and members of the LGBTQ community. Sources indicate that Johnson and Rivera were present during the raid, and their involvement is said to be significant. It is asserted that they played a decisive role in instigating the ensuing riots, although further details about their actions and motivations are yet to be revealed. It is imperative to investigate the matter thoroughly to determine the extent of their involvement and hold them accountable for their actions.
Marsha P. Johnson
is often credited with throwing the first brick or shot glass, symbolically marking the start of the resistance. However, Johnson herself has disputed this claim, stating in interviews that she didn't arrive until the riot was underway. Regardless of the specifics, there's no doubt that Johnson was a prominent figure during the riots, which was part of the subsequent fight for LGBTQ rights. Marsha P. Johnson is among the most notable transgender African American women in the LBGTQ community. The LBGTQ community celebrated her for being fearless and courageous in embracing her true self despite facing harassment, judgment, and ridicule before, during, and after the events of the Stonewall Rebellion. While there are different accounts of the events that led to the raid that morning, her bravery inspires many. It has been observed that Marsha was considered a leader and a prominent figure in the LGBTQ community. She was fully committed to her cause and felt she had nothing to lose. Her deep-seated feelings of anger, coupled with the historical oppression and
mistreatment of her community, were the driving force behind her decision to take action that morning. (Rothberg, 2022)
Sylvia Rivera
, a close friend of Johnson's, was also a key participant in the riots. Rivera
was reportedly one of the first to resist the police during the raid and was vocal and visible throughout the demonstrations. Sylvia Rivera was a transgender activist and a key founding member of the Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activists Alliance. Rivera’s participation in the
Stonewall Rebellion was fueled by her desire for civil rights for the LGBTQ community. She was driven by her passion for advocating for the transgender community, specifically individuals
of color, and fought for equality and human rights. (Rothberg, 2021)
Johnson and Rivera's involvement in the Stonewall Riots left an indelible mark on the LGBTQ rights movement. As pioneers of the Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activists Alliance, both organizations were instrumental in advancing LGBTQ rights in the U.S. Additionally, they founded the Street Transgender Action Revolutionaries (STAR) in 1970, a group committed to supporting marginalized young drag queens and trans women of color. Their
legacy remains an inspiration in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights still today (Nestle et al., 2002). Motivation to Participate in Historical Event by a Historical Group or Figure:
Several historical figures or groups participated in the events of the Stonewall Rebellion. Two groups significant to the Stonewall Rebellion were the Gay Liberation Front and The Gay Activists Alliance. The Gay Liberation Front (GLF) started after the Stonewall Rebellion 1969. The GLF was created as a means to fight for the rights of the LGBTQ community and oppose the
discrimination they faced. It inspired many activists to act against the oppressive societal structures that had been in place for years. One of the main objectives of the GLF was to use the term "gay" in its name, which was a revolutionary step. It meant that the group was not afraid to be open and proud about their sexuality. This helped promote visibility for the LGBTQ community. The group opposed the criminalization of homosexuality, police brutality, and the idea of homosexuality as a mental illness. They played a crucial role in the fight for gay marriage, the repeal of sodomy laws, and the end of discrimination in the workplace and housing. Although the GLF was a radical group, they made significant contributions to the fight for LGBTQ rights.
The group or organization’s motivation to participate in the event:
The Gay Activists Alliance (GAA) was formed due to the Stonewall Rebellion. Its main objective was to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ community. While the Gay Liberation
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Front (GLF) had a similar mission, the GAA adopted a more focused approach. They concentrated solely on issues affecting gay and lesbian individuals to achieve greater success in their advocacy efforts. Their group of activists strongly approached the LGBTQ community’s freedom. Freedom of self, and for social, economic, and political rights. The GAA used non-
violent tactics to protest against the discrimination of the LGBTQ community peacefully. These actions aimed to bring attention to issues like employment discrimination, police brutality, and the exclusion of openly gay individuals from law enforcement. The GAA used confrontational tactics to challenge existing norms and push for change. The GAA played a significant role in advancing the cause of the LGBTQ community. Their efforts helped to raise awareness of the issues facing gay and lesbian individuals and paved the way for greater acceptance and equality.
Part Three
Examining How Bias Impacts Narrative
Narrative of Stonewall Rebellion: Marc Stein's Theory of a Revolution for Riots
is an authentic and eye-opening perspective
discussing the events of the Stonewall Rebellion. Stein begins his narrative by setting the scene in the pre-Stonewall era. He describes a society where homosexuality was largely stigmatized and criminalized. Homosexual acts were illegal nationwide, and homosexuals were often subjected to police harassment and societal discrimination. Stein presents evidence of how society, the local community, and individual LGBTQ members were influenced and impacted by
the Rebellion. This evidence helps us better understand the riots' before, during, and aftermath. Stein analyzes Don Jackson’s work (Los Angeles Advocate, who wrote Reflections on the N.Y. Riots
), another compelling article on the struggle with the LGBTQ lifestyle and discrimination and inequality. Jackson noted the tension between minority groups within society and the local community, highlighting how essential recognizing a group's status can suddenly make things worse, especially after long periods of improvement. He discussed the significance of the Rebellion and how it was the turning point in the fight for LGBTQ rights, leading to the formation of several activist groups and the establishment of Pride marches. The event is now widely recognized as a symbol of resistance against LGBTQ oppression. (Stein, 2019)
Influence of biased perspectives in Primary and Secondary sources:
As module four states, “Bias exists in nearly all human endeavors; the goal is to identify bias and analyze its impact in the narrative.”
(
Module Four Introduction - HIS-100-H7397 Perspectives in History 24EW3
, 2024.) Whether or not we recognize our bias, it can still be there. A bias can be defined as a predisposition or prejudice toward or against someone, something, or a group. Biased perspectives can significantly influence our understanding of events, situations, and perspectives. Bias presents itself in various ways: sources, facts, evidence,
or narratives. Bias can also lead to an incomplete or inaccurate transformation of informational knowledge. Primary sources, such as diaries, letters, and memoirs, offer valuable insight into historical events but may not always provide an objective account. This is because they are influenced by the author's personal experiences and perspectives, which can lead to omitted key details or events. Additionally, the author's biases, including political or social views, can shape their interpretation and portrayal of events. Highlighting specific incidents while overlooking others can lead to a distorted version of the historical context of the event due to their experiences. When an author plays on their personal beliefs, values, and emotions, it can influence how an event is perceived and conveyed. Cultural bias may also affect how the event is
portrayed since their cultural background can impact their standing, leading to prejudice or cultural bias.
The historian's biases or perspectives significantly influence the interpretation of secondary sources. It's a fact that historians who sympathize with a particular political movement
may interpret primary sources in a way that aligns with their views, whereas another historian may interpret the same sources differently. Moreover, secondary sources often exclude or diminish certain events or perspectives that do not correspond with the author's narrative or argument. The unintentional introduction of bias by authors into secondary sources is a relevant topic. It is important to recognize that publishers may prefer certain viewpoints over others, which can result in a biased representation of historical events. This phenomenon is known as publication bias. Therefore, it is crucial to remember these biases to ensure that historical events are accurately and impartially portrayed.
Historians and scholars must be mindful of their biases and carefully assess primary and secondary sources for accuracy to paint a complete picture of historical events. This is equally important for students and other readers, who incomplete or biased sources may mislead. It's
vital to approach all sources critically and evaluate the information presented to understand the events in question fully. Although a source may not ever be completely free of bias, there are ways that we can mitigate the influence of bias for the most unbiased research. Seeking out multiple perspectives and checking for diverse and broad contexts or foundations, evaluating and
analyzing the purpose and reason of the source it was created, and finally cross-checking against multiple resources to verify the information. In evaluating the sources during my research process, one commonality I noticed was the use of derogatory terms when referring to members of the LGBTQ community. For example, in Queen of the Exiles, The Forgotten Ones,
Sylvia describes what law enforcement said when they
entered the bar that morning and began separating people. “Faggots here dykes here, and freaks over here.” (Nestle et al., 2002)
Transgender individuals, particularly drag queens, were often excluded from bars and other spaces. The Stonewall Inn was primarily a bar for white, middle-
class men seeking relationships with young men from diverse racial backgrounds.
The Equality Act is a new bill that aims to change the current civil rights laws and prevent discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. With this new legislation,
people cannot be discriminated against in areas such as housing, education, employment, credit, and public accommodations. However, some people are against the bill and argue that it would create new rights for transgender individuals or limit religious freedom. Unfortunately, many of these arguments come from biased perspectives that don't accurately represent the bill's contents and possible impact (The Human Rights Campaign, 2023).
Missing Perspectives for the Stonewall Rebellion:
One of the perspectives that I felt was missing that would drastically change the perspective of the events of that morning was the Stonewall Inn bar owner. From the Stonewall Inn bar owner's perspective, the Riots could be seen as a social, economic, and legal disruption and implication. Events led to the bar's closure for a while, causing a loss of money. The Stonewall Inn operated without a liquor license, and the riots increased law enforcement scrutiny, which would have concerned the owner. Thinking about how the bar owner must have felt during the Stonewall riots, on one hand, the Stonewall Inn became a total symbol of resistance and a rallying point for the LGBTQ community.
But on the other hand, the violence and chaos of the developing riots must have been
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stressful and overwhelming. It was a really complex situation, making you think about the impact of social movements and the aftermath. The perspective of Stonewell’s owner adds a whole new layer to the events. It shows more complexity than some might've thought to begin with. That’s why looking at situations from all angles and sides is important
. Part Four
Connecting the Past With the Present
How understanding Historical Roots improves understanding of Human Rights Campaign:
Studying the historical roots of societal issues, such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination, can provide valuable insights into the present and help us build a more just and equitable future. By understanding the underlying factors that sustain these issues, we can develop more effective solutions to tackle them. While researching the Stonewall Rebellion, I discovered that comprehending its historical
roots was crucial in shedding light on the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights and equality. It was evident that before the Stonewall events, several organizations and activist groups existed to support the LGBTQ community and its fight for equal rights. Still, they were often overshadowed by the civil rights movement of the 1950s. Knowing this context helped me appreciate the pivotal role that the Stonewall Rebellion played in the LGBTQ community's fight for equal rights and how it continues to influence the equal rights movement today. The Rebellion gave rise to more activism toward LGBTQ community rights and lifestyles, and linking current-day LGBTQ issues and their fight for rights back to the Rebellion instills a level of appreciation for how such issues have impacted them. Although the LGBTQ community has made progress in its fight for equal rights, they still face struggles with discrimination and inequality today. Understanding these struggles from a historical standpoint can help us better address them today.
The Stonewall Rebellion highlighted the need within society for a national, organized anti-discrimination response program against the LBTQ community. The Human Rights Campaign was established to support the LGBTQ community by advocating for their rights and educating the public. Their efforts aim to achieve equality and promote changes in various ways, particularly in the legal system. The Stonewall Rebellion was a defining moment that transformed the situation for the LBGTQ community, leading to the creation of other
organizations and initiatives supporting LGBTQ rights and equality. (The Human Rights Campaign, 2023)
How do assumptions, beliefs, and values benefit me personally:
In taking the time to question my own values, assumptions, and beliefs, I open myself up to insight about myself and the world around me, leading to greater personal fulfillment. By examining my assumptions, I can better understand my priorities and align my actions and decisions, which will help me to reach my goals. It is important to question my assumptions so I can work on my development and grow personally by challenging myself to think differently and
consider new perspectives. Expanding my horizons allows me to become more empathetic in the world around me and find compassion in new situations.
While the journey of self-discovery and questioning beliefs can be daunting and uncomfortable, the benefits are well worth the effort. Identifying my biases will help me become more tolerant and accepting of others, teaching me humility in my relationships. Ultimately, questioning my assumptions, beliefs, and values can be an invaluable experience that leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. In all areas of life, including personal, academic, and professional settings, it’s important to be mindful of my assumptions, beliefs, and values. When we can communicate and work with others better, it helps us better comprehend our own beliefs and values, which fosters a greater understanding of the beliefs and values of others better. Being Historically Informed: A deep understanding of history is essential for us to learn from the past, avoid repeating past mistakes, and gain valuable insights into human behavior. By studying history, we can identify our patterns and evaluate and examine the causes and effects of significant events to make informed decisions about the present and future. Gaining historical knowledge also allows us to build deeper connections with the world around us, fostering a sense of empathy and respect for others by providing a window into the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of others at different times and through different cultures. In our fast-paced world, knowledge of history allows us to think critically and make informed decisions.
We can use our understanding of history to evaluate our ideas and those of others, making informed decisions to become responsible and engaged citizens.
Studying history also provides valuable insights into complex societal issues such as discrimination, racism, and inequality. By taking a closer look at the past, we can understand how these issues have emerged and evolved and how they continue to impact our lives today. For instance, learning about the Stonewall Rebellion and the LGBTQ rights movement can provide us with a roadmap to create a more inclusive and equitable society that respects the rights of all individuals. Being historically informed allows us to build a society that values and respects everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or cultural background. Our knowledge of history empowers us to actively challenge and eradicate discrimination, racism, and inequality, creating a more just and harmonious world.
Studying history offers us a wealth of knowledge that can help us make sense of the world around us. By examining the similarities and differences between different periods, we can
gain valuable insights to help us navigate today's challenges. Instead of feeling overwhelmed or discouraged by our problems, we can look to the past for inspiration and guidance.
Studying history allows us to appreciate the resilience and collective power of humanity. Through the stories of individuals and groups who have stood up against injustice and oppression, we can gain inspiration and insight into how we can positively impact the world around us. We can learn from their successes and failures and apply those lessons to today's challenges.
Ultimately, being a historically informed citizen is more than just accumulating knowledge. It is about using that knowledge to make informed decisions that contribute to a better future for all. By taking a historical perspective on contemporary issues, we can gain a deeper understanding of their root causes and work together to create effective and sustainable solutions in the long run. Rather than feeling helpless or overwhelmed by our problems, we can feel empowered to make a difference in the world we live in today.
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