33. Beyond the Closet: The Persecution and Liberation of DC's LGBTQ+ Com

Beyond the Closet: The Persecution and Liberation of Washington, DC's LGBTQ+ Community

Tour description:

Today Washington, DC, is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly jurisdictions in the country with gay-friendly laws, an inclusive school curriculum, anti-discrimination protections and marriage equality. But from the 1940s to the 1970s, this city was ground zero for actively uncovering closeted gay federal government employees and firing them without justification. On this walking tour, see Washington's iconic government buildings through the eyes of the committed government servants who were persecuted because of their sexual orientation. See the sites where the brave few chose to fight back and demand their civil rights. Also see where they built their own communities and paved the way for today’s more inclusive city. Our country chose fear over competence and denied the service of hundreds of eminently qualified researchers, diplomats and leaders. But in the end, learn how this discrimination caused the LGBTQ community to organize, to unite and to emerge from the closet.

Tour Guide: Zach Patalingjug; Tour company owner and licensed tour guide

Ward: 2

TOUR INFORMATION:

Tour Starting Location:

Lafayette Square Park

Jackson Place and H Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001

Meet at the northwest corner of Jackson Place and H Street NW.

· Closest Metro or Bus Line: Farragut West

· Tour Ending Location: 1724 20th Street NW

· Tour Length: 2 hours

· Tour Distance: 2 miles

· Fitness Level: Low Level (slow walking, flat terrain)

· Audio Enhancer: No

· ASL: No

· Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

· Stroller Accessible: Yes

Host or Publisher Events DC