After viewing the film “Before Stonewall',' which provides documentation and further insight into the Stonewall riots of 1969, it really goes to show how far back people of the LGBTQ+ community have existed and have been fighting for equal rights in society. Many people in modern times are appalled by the rise in LGBTQ+ appreciation and acceptance being visualized everywhere. These very same people believe that this current uprise in a growing LGBTQ+ community and exposure was due to the fault of social media. Many of them believe that no one is born gay or trans, but are influenced by the media they consume. That this media is now becoming “too much” and “unnecessary” in various outlets such as television, movies, music, parades, concerts, etc. Many times I have heard the argument that these gay and trans people suddenly came out of nowhere and are growing in numbers the more they have access to media that “influence” others to do the same.
Everytime I hear this argument, even from my own family, it makes me remember the Stonewall riots, which played a significant role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. After viewing the film for a second time, it solidified my understanding of the history of the LGBTQ+ community. These people have not popped up out of nowhere, and certainly not during this time. They have always existed, these are real people with real feelings. They only wish to exist and have the same rights as another citizen has and to not be criminalized simply for their sexual preference or identity. I believe the only reason to clarify why these “queers'' are appearing now more than ever is because society has become more tolerant and accepting of the LGBTQ+ community. Laws have come into place to protect legal same sex marriage, which allowed the people of the community to feel safer to come out from hiding. And those from a younger generation now have a safe community to express who they truly are without hiding it in fear like those back in the 1960’s had to do.
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