40. Beyond the Closet: Persecution and Liberation of DC’s LGBTQ Community

Beyond the Closet: 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-1970s, this city was ground zero for actively uncovering closeted gay federal government employees and firing them without justification. On this walking tour, you’ll see Washington DC’s iconic government buildings through the eyes of the committed government servants who were persecuted because of their sexual orientation. You’ll see the sites where the brave few chose to fight back and demand their civil rights. And you’ll 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. Learn how this discrimination caused the LGBTQ community to organize, to unite and to emerge from the closet.

Tour Guide: Zachary Patalingjug; Licensed guide and owner of Beyond the Landmarks LLC walking tour company.

Ward: 2

Tour Information:

· Tour Starting Location:

Farragut Square

912 17th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006

Meet at Farragut Square, southeast corner of park at 17th Street and I (Eye) Street, NW.

· Closest Metro or Bus Line: Farragut West or Farragut North

· Tour Ending Location: Triangle Park, Dupont Circle Metro Q Street entrance.

· Tour Length: 2 hours

· Tour Distance: 2.5 mile(s)

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

· Audio Enhancer: No

· ASL: No

· Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

· Stroller Accessible: Yes

Host or Publisher Events DC