by Evelyn Bailey
PRIDE. Pronunciation:\`pr?d\ Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English pry?de, from pr?d proud
1: the quality or state of being proud: as a: inordinate self-esteem b: a reasonable or justifiable self-respect c: delight or elation arising from some act, possession, or relationship <parental pride>
This definition captures the feeling the Rochester LGBT Community has grown into over the past 40 years. Our growing sense of who we are individually and as a community has moved us to be more visible and proud. We take great pride in our community’s accomplishments in our struggle for equality and the freedom to be who we are. Our focus for this article will be the year 1973, the year that the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley began, and the accomplishments of that year by the Rochester LGBT community.
1973 – A Year of Pride
In February, “Green Thursday” the first gay radio show, begins on WCMF at 12 am. Later it will alternate with “Lesbian Nation”. Also in February, the first anniversary of GROW (Gay Revolution of Women) was celebrated. They met at the “Women’s Center” at 185 East Avenue.
In April, a co-ordinating council consisting of the chairpersons of the several Gay Liberation Front committees, meets and recommends to move all non-student operations off the University of Rochester Campus. Reorganization to become effective July 1, 1973.
In May, the name “Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley” is the new name for this non-student group, and its new location will be 812 Brown St., donated by Mark Hull. Also in May, GROW calls a meeting at the “Women’s Center” on rape which leads to the founding of the much-needed Rape Crisis Center, which still helps women who have been raped.
In July, the first offices of the Gay Alliance open at Brown’s Street. Whitey LeBlanc is elected the first president. GAGV holds its first meeting. Also in July the University of Rochester Gay Liberation Front transfers publication of the Empty Closet to the Gay Alliance at Brown Street.
In August, GROW sponsors the first dance held at new GAGV center at 812 Brown St.
In September, GAGV membership opens at a cost of $3.50 with the requirement that a member attend three meetings within a five-week period. The Gay Alliance held its first Open House.
In October, the GAGV hosts the first New York State Coalition of Gay Organizations conference at the Universalist Church at 150 Clinton Avenue at Court St. The “Dykes Unite” newspaper is born at the NYSCGO conference in Rochester. Later the name is changed to the “New Women’s Times.”
In November, GROW opens an office at the Co-op, 713 Monroe Avenue, second floor
In December, the GAGV becomes incorporated and in April of the following year moves to the Co-op on Monroe Avenue to share space with GROW.
In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association declassifies homosexuality as a mental disorder.
In 1973, Midge Costanza (later to come out) is elected to city council, and becomes vice mayor.
In the ensuing years there were many more firsts. The struggle for equality and individual freedom to be yourself anywhere, at any time, with any one continues today for our brothers and sisters who are just coming out and for many who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and intersex. This is also true for our allies who voice their support for the LGBT community. The passage of SONDA and Marriage Equality provide some but not all with protection and rights. GENDA has yet to be passed.
On July 20, the History Pavilion at Manhattan Square Park will present an overview of historically significant events over the past 40 years of Rochester LGBT history. Shoulders To Stand On hopes that you will visit the History Pavilion and become better acquainted with our early pioneers and our community’s roots. Shoulders To Stand On is PROUD of our history and all those who have in any way contributed to it. YOU will create and live our history as individuals and as part of a community. PRIDE is our hallmark and our legacy. Shoulders To Stand On invites each and every single person who is LGBT, an ally or a member of the Greater Rochester community to stand tall and be PROUD of who we are and of those whose shoulders we stand on today.
Happy Pride! See YOU at the History Pavilion at Manhattan Square Park!