Denver gay revolt of 1973, part 1 of 12

This documentary was made by Gerald Gerash. It is about the historic revolt by the gay community in Denver in 1973. Gerald took part in that struggle. His documentary covers the events of how, after months of police harassment, the gay community took their case to Denver city hall, and ultimately prevailed.

That was an early historic landmark in the long struggle for gay rights in Denver and for the country. The documentary goes on to depict the building upon the momentum of that success to other quick remarkable successes in the lives of Denver's LGBT people.

This is a people's history as it unfolds with voices and archival documents: how a minority community organized itself from the grass roots --- from a powerless community into one that quickly learned how to empower itself. Although a history about the struggles of the LGBT community, this is a story applicable to any oppressed minority or group struggling for justice and respect.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Denver
• gay
• revolt
• 1970s

[GerashGerald]

Thank you. I appreciate your hug.

[mikebdenv]

I just watched all 12 parts. Wow! What a history lesson - every gay person in Denver should watch this series! I'd heard about the "Johnny Cash Special" from older friends who are now passed. THANK YOU GERRY FOR ALL YOU'VE DONE FOR THE CAUSE! You have lots to be proud of.... See you at Pride!

[GerashGerald]

@mikebdenv Hi Mike, Thank you! I'll be there for Pride, indeed! I will be bringing the DVDs. Althought available to see on You Tube, I think people might like to have a DVD of their own. I am hoping it will be considered a worthy "gay pride present" for a loved one or friends and family. Please say hello. I'll be in the front of the parade as a grand marshal --- for the activists from the decade of the 70s. Jerry

[howller]

Inspiring!

[GerashGerald]

@howller

thank you for your input.  I'll be at Gay Pride in Denver, as one of the grand marshals. Say hello!

[apboulton]

I never knew about this, thanks so much for your good work (then and now).

[melinasparta43]

In this deserted land of Italy,we never had any news of it !Thanks to the web,and a warm hug to the Author .God bless You

[markcossin]

Same here. I just watched the entire series. Thank you Gerald Gerash not only for writing, producing and directing this documentary but also for your tenacity, patience and wisdom that helped create the conditions for change in Denver.

[jimdnvr]

Thank You for putting this documentary together, and Thank You for all your hard work. I have not had to deal with police harassment or worry if an establishment I may go to will be raided, and I owe that to people like you.