Barbara Gittings

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Barbara Gittings was a pioneering American activist for gay and lesbian civil rights, co-founding the Daughters of Bilitis and advocating for equal rights through her work in journalism and activism.

Who is Barbara Gittings

Barbara Gittings (July 31, 1932 – February 18, 2007) was an influential American activist for lesbian rights and an early advocate for equality of homosexuals in American society. She played a significant role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement from the early 1960s, particularly within the realms of literature and libraries. Gittings was born in Vienna, Austria, where her father was a U.S. diplomat, but she grew up in Wilmington, Delaware. Her activism began after she faced ostracism during her college years due to her sexuality. This led her to seek out connections in the nascent homosexual rights movement and eventually become deeply involved in advocacy. One of her major contributions was her work with the American Library Association (ALA). She founded the first gay-focused caucus within the ALA, known as the Task Force on Gay Liberation, which is now called the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table. Her efforts were crucial in promoting the inclusion of LGBTQ+ literature in libraries and challenging the censorship of LGBTQ+ content. Barbara Gittings also played a pivotal role in lobbying the American Psychiatric Association (APA) to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. Her activism, along with that of other key figures, led to a significant milestone in 1973 when the APA finally made that change. Throughout her life, Gittings was deeply involved with Daughters of Bilitis, the first lesbian civil and political rights organization in the United States, and she edited its national publication, The Ladder, from 1963 to 1966. Through her editorial work, she sought to elevate the discussion on lesbian issues, improve the visibility of lesbians in society, and advocate for civil rights. Barbara Gittings is remembered as a foundational figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, whose relentless pursuit of justice and equality helped to transform American society. Her legacy is celebrated in various forms, including awards named in her honor to recognize contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the field of librarianship.

How did Barbara Gittings' activism shift over the decades

Barbara Gittings' activism evolved significantly over the decades in response to the changing landscape of societal and political attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights. In the 1950s and early 1960s, Gittings' activism was primarily focused on homosexual rights within the context of broader civil rights movements. She aimed to debunk stereotypes and educate people about homosexuality as a natural orientation, not a disease or moral failing. This period saw her involvement with the Daughters of Bilitis (DOB), an important lesbian organization where she edited the national magazine, *The Ladder*. Her work through the DOB aimed to offer a voice and visibility to lesbians and advocate for their rights. By the late 1960s, following the Stonewall Riots of 1969, there was a shift towards more radical and confrontational tactics in the gay rights movement. Gittings adapted to this new climate by participating in more direct actions. She was a significant figure in organizing demonstrations, including annual reminders at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, which were among the earliest LGBT rights protests in the U.S. In the 1970s, her focus shifted towards a specific issue within the realm of LGBT rights: the psychiatric classification of homosexuality as a mental disorder. Working alongside activists like Frank Kameny and participating in protests at American Psychiatric Association (APA) conventions, Gittings played a crucial role in the fight to have homosexuality removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). This was achieved in 1973, marking a significant victory in reducing medical stigmatization of gay individuals. Furthermore, during the same decade, Gittings devoted energy towards influencing the library profession to be more inclusive of LGBTQ+ materials and issues. She co-founded the Task Force on Gay Liberation within the American Library Association, demonstrating her broader commitment to informational and educational advocacy. In her later years, Gittings continued to be active, focusing on preserving LGBTQ history and promoting equal rights, showing the endurance of her commitment to the cause throughout her life. Her activism, therefore, saw a progression from discreet organizational work to public demonstrations and strategic advocacy, reflecting both her personal growth and the evolving nature of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States.

What major victories did Barbara Gittings achieve for LGBTQ rights

Barbara Gittings was a prominent activist who achieved several major victories for LGBTQ rights, primarily focusing on the decriminalization of homosexuality and the visibility and acceptance of gay people in society. Some of her most notable accomplishments include: 1. **American Library Association (ALA):** Gittings founded the first gay caucus in the ALA, known as the Task Force on Gay Liberation, which is now the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table (GLBTRT). She worked to promote literature that included LGBTQ themes and fought against the censorship of gay-related content, helping to make libraries more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ individuals. 2. **Dewey Decimal Classification:** In her work with libraries, she notably helped influence changes to the way books about homosexuality were categorized. Originally classified under "Abnormal Sexual Relations, Including Sexual Crimes," she helped change this to a more neutral category, reducing stigmatization. 3. **Homosexuality and Psychology:** Gittings played a critical role in the campaign to have homosexuality removed from the American Psychiatric Association’s list of mental disorders. This was a monumental shift in 1973 that significantly altered how gay people were treated legally and socially. 4. **Public Demonstrations:** She was also involved in early public demonstrations for gay rights, participating in annual reminders at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall from 1965 to 1969. These were among the first organized demonstrations for homosexual rights in the United States and helped set the stage for the more widespread activism following the Stonewall riots. 5. **National Activism:** Gittings was involved in national efforts to promote equality, working with groups like the Gay Activists Alliance. Her efforts contributed to the visibility and gradual acceptance of homosexuality, setting foundational work for later rights developments. Barbara Gittings’ work primarily laid important groundwork for future legal and social advances in LGBTQ rights, particularly through her advocacy for visibility, literature, and her challenge to medical perceptions of homosexuality.

Can you explain Barbara Gittings' relationship with Kay Tobin Lahusen

Barbara Gittings and Kay Tobin Lahusen were both pioneers in the early gay rights movement and were partners in life as well as in activism. They met in 1961 at a Daughters of Bilitis picnic in Rhode Island. Daughters of Bilitis was the first lesbian civil and political rights organization in the United States. Their partnership began soon after they met, and they remained together for 46 years until Gittings' death in 2007. Together, Gittings and Lahusen contributed significantly to the visibility and progress of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Lahusen, a dedicated photographer, documented many of the movement's pivotal moments and figures, often collaborating with Gittings on various projects and initiatives. They were involved in organizing and participating in early protests such as the Annual Reminders at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. They also contributed significantly to the literature and publications that supported LGBTQ+ rights. Gittings was instrumental in the American Library Association's Gay Task Force, which worked tirelessly to ensure that libraries included and provided access to literature about the gay experience. Lahusen supported these efforts by providing photographs for publication and activism. Their relationship was not only a personal partnership but also a profound professional alliance that significantly influenced the direction and impact of the gay rights movement in the United States.

What personal struggles did Barbara Gittings encounter due to her activism

Barbara Gittings faced numerous personal struggles due to her activism for LGBTQ+ rights. One of the primary challenges she encountered was societal discrimination. During the mid-20th century when she was most active, homosexuality was largely considered immoral and illegal, which often exposed her to public contempt and marginalization. Professionally, Gittings' openness about her sexuality limited her employment opportunities. She noted in various interviews and writings that being openly gay led to job rejections and difficulties in sustaining a stable career outside of her activism efforts, which was not itself a paying job for most of her life. Additionally, Gittings and her long-time partner, Kay Tobin Lahusen, faced the innate challenges of maintaining an open lesbian relationship during a period when such relationships were subjected to legal and societal disapproval. They had to navigate the lack of legal recognition for their partnership, which impacted their rights as a couple in numerous ways, including hospital visitation rights, inheritance laws, and more. Despite these struggles, Barbara Gittings remained determined and continued her activism, significantly contributing to the progress of LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

What methods of protest did Barbara Gittings employ in her activism

Barbara Gittings was known for her strategic, nonviolent methods of protest and advocacy, which were crucial in advancing the rights of homosexuals during the 20th century. Some of the main methods she employed included: 1. **Public demonstrations and picketing:** Gittings was pivotal in organizing some of the earliest public protests for gay rights, such as the Annual Reminders in front of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, which began in 1965. These protests were some of the first to be staged for gay rights in the United States and were significant in pushing the visibility of the gay community into the public consciousness. 2. **Advocacy for library inclusion:** As a librarian by training, Gittings was deeply involved in the American Library Association (ALA). She founded the Task Force on Gay Liberation, a part of the ALA, which aimed to promote literature that included and supported the gay community and to challenge the exclusion of gay books from libraries. This helped shift public perception and accessibility regarding LGBTQ+ literature and resources. 3. **Educational outreach:** Gittings believed strongly in the power of education to change minds and hearts. She was involved in providing information and education about the gay community to the public, participating in panels, and speaking at events. Her work helped to demystify homosexuality and combat prejudice and misinformation. 4. **Media engagement:** Understanding the power of media, Gittings also worked to challenge and change the portrayal of homosexuals in the press and public media. She was involved in persuading the American Psychiatric Association to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. Her advocacy was crucial in the decision made in 1973, which marked a significant victory for gay rights. Through these methods, Barbara Gittings laid down a foundational path for LGBTQ+ activism, emphasizing dignity, visibility, and rights for the gay community through peaceful, determined advocacy.

How did Barbara Gittings become famous

Barbara Gittings became famous for her pioneering activism in the American LGBTQ+ rights movement during the 20th century. Her advocacy focused primarily on the de-stigmatization of homosexuality and the fight for equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. She gained prominence through several key activities and roles: 1. **Daughters of Bilitis (DOB)**: Gittings joined this early lesbian organization in the late 1950s and quickly became a leading figure. She was instrumental in establishing the New York chapter of DOB and later edited its national magazine, *The Ladder*, where she contributed articles that advocated for social acceptance and civil rights for lesbians. 2. **American Library Association (ALA)**: Recognizing the importance of literature as a tool for change, Gittings was particularly active in promoting LGBTQ+ literature. She co-founded the ALA's Gay Task Force in 1970, which is now known as the Rainbow Round Table. Her work here focused on advocating for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ literature in libraries and battling censorship. 3. **Activism and Public Advocacy**: Gittings was involved in numerous protests and public demonstrations, including annual reminders at Independence Hall in Philadelphia to remind Americans that LGBTQ+ people did not enjoy basic civil rights. These protests were pivotal in bringing national attention to the gay rights movement. 4. **Collaboration with the Medical Community**: She also collaborated with Frank Kameny to challenge the American Psychiatric Association’s classification of homosexuality as a mental disorder. Their efforts were successful, and in 1973 the APA declassified homosexuality as an illness. Through these efforts and her tireless advocacy, Barbara Gittings played a crucial role in advancing the cause of LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in the United States. Her legacy includes not only the advancements she helped to secure but also her role as an inspiration for future generations of activists.

Why is Locust Street called Barbara Gittings Way

Locust Street in Philadelphia was renamed Barbara Gittings Way in honor of Barbara Gittings due to her significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights, particularly her activism in the city. Barbara Gittings was a prominent figure in the gay rights movement in the United States. She was deeply involved in the Philadelphia chapter of the Daughters of Bilitis (DOB), the first lesbian civil and political rights organization in the United States. Gittings also played a crucial role in organizing annual reminders at Independence Hall in Philadelphia to protest the lack of civil rights for gay people, further highlighting her ties to the city. The renaming of a section of Locust Street as Barbara Gittings Way serves as a tribute to her impactful work and legacy in advocating for equality and justice for the LGBTQ+ community.

What awards did Barbara Gittings receive

Barbara Gittings was a significant figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and was recognized with several awards for her activism and contributions. Notably, she received the American Library Association's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Round Table Award for her efforts in promoting gay literature in libraries. This award was later renamed the Stonewall Book Award-Barbara Gittings Literature Award in her honor. Additionally, she was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the American Library Association in 2003. Gittings was also recognized by other organizations for her lifelong commitment to gay rights activism. For instance, she and her long-time partner, Kay Tobin Lahusen, received the first annual Philadelphia Liberty Bell Award from the mayor of Philadelphia in recognition of their contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. These awards and recognitions reflect the impact of Gittings' work in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

Why did Barbara Gittings want to be an activist

Barbara Gittings became an activist primarily because she recognized the pervasive discrimination and social injustices faced by gay people, including herself, during the 1950s and 1960s. She struggled with her own sexual identity and the absence of positive information about homosexuality, which was largely stigmatized and misunderstood at the time. This personal experience of isolation and stigma fueled her desire to fight for gay rights and better representation. Gittings was driven by a vision where gay people could live openly and be accepted within society. She wanted to challenge the prevailing norms and misconceptions about homosexuality, which were often depicted as pathological or criminal behaviors in literature, media, and the law. Her activism was rooted in a deep commitment to education, visibility, and legal equality, aiming to uplift the dignity of homosexual individuals and advocate for their civil rights.

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