This Week in Queer History
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twiqh.bsky.social
This Week in Queer History
@twiqh.bsky.social
Creating hope and community by sharing fun, lighthearted, and educational stories about historical LGBTQ events and icons.
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Want to know what queer history happened on your bday or other special day? Here you go!

MyQueerBirthday.com
During WWII, Willem and Frieda Belinfante crafted 70,000-80,000 fake identity documents, aiding Jews and dissidents in evading Nazis and accessing essentials. A testament to innovative defiance. #History #Courage
November 25, 2025 at 12:50 AM
Willem, before his execution on July 1, 1943, declared, “Let it be known that homosexuals are not cowards.” Facing death without fear, he remained clear in conscience for saving lives. His words continue to inspire, highlighting the courage of living truthfully under threat. #Courage #Pride
November 23, 2025 at 6:36 PM
Commissioned in 1604, the King James Bible sought to unify religious groups with a single translation. Published in 1611, it's a cornerstone of English literature. Interestingly, its benefactor often called another man his "sweet child and wife." #BibleHistory #LiteraryLegacy
November 22, 2025 at 6:03 PM
Feeling hopeless isn’t being powerless. Reflecting on Harry Hay and Dale Jennings' dedication shows action is possible even in adversity. The Mattachine Society fought injustice without waiting for ideal conditions, similar to my struggles with discrimination. #Empowerment #TakeAction
November 18, 2025 at 12:50 AM
Grindr Uncovered Without WiFi

Comparing early 20th-century lonely hearts ads to today's Grindr reveals intriguing connections. The aspect of police entrapment adds an element of danger and intrigue, engaging audiences. #Grindr #DatingHistory
November 16, 2025 at 6:36 PM
Hidden beneath pillows, the secretive allure of flashlight reading in the 1940s and 1950s captured the forbidden excitement and urgent craving for representation, a feeling that resonates with many. #QueerHistory #HiddenLiterature
November 15, 2025 at 6:02 PM
The grand scale of 1920s drag balls defies today's expectations. Star-studded events and their open nature challenge the belief they were purely underground. #1920sDrag #CulturalHistory
November 11, 2025 at 12:50 AM
Emily Dickinson defied the stereotype of a reclusive spinster. Her vibrant and intelligent poetry, along with passionate letters to women like Susan Gilbert, unveils her rich queer heritage. Let's appreciate her in all her passionate, poetic, and complex glory. #EmilyDickinson #QueerLegacy
November 1, 2025 at 5:03 PM
Did your English class overlook Shakespeare's queer narratives? Today, we're uncovering the rich LGBTQ+ elements woven into his classic works. Get ready to appreciate the Bard in a whole new (and delightfully queer) way! #Shakespeare #LGBTQ
October 27, 2025 at 11:50 PM
Was the world's most renowned Bible commissioned by a gay monarch? Uncover the hidden tale of King James I—his notorious romances with men, his political maneuvers, and the intriguing contradictions of his rule. History just got a fabulous twist. #HistoryUnveiled #RoyalSecrets
October 26, 2025 at 5:36 PM
Explore the intriguing journey of Alfred Kinsey, the scientist who transformed America's perception of sexuality. His pioneering work and the Kinsey Scale empowered countless individuals to accept their true identities. Uncover this pivotal history today! #SexualityRevolution #KinseyLegacy
October 25, 2025 at 5:05 PM
Quentin Crisp, a renowned British author was celebrated for his flamboyant style and wit. Born on December 25, 1908, Crisp's life from rent-boy to esteemed storyteller charmed audiences in the UK and US with his distinct views on life and art. #LiteraryGenius #QuentinCrisp
October 20, 2025 at 11:51 PM
Did your English class overlook Shakespeare’s LGBTQ+ tales? Today, we're unveiling the rich queer themes woven into his enduring works. Get ready to rediscover the Bard through a vibrant, inclusive lens! #Shakespeare #LGBTQ
October 19, 2025 at 5:36 PM
Michelangelo, known for David and the Sistine Chapel, was also a queer icon. His poetry, letters, and art reflect same-sex love in an oppressive era. Explore his hidden queerness, lovers, and impact on LGBTQ+ artists today. #QueerHistory
October 18, 2025 at 5:05 PM
Have you ever imagined a high school that truly celebrates your identity? Today, we explore the empowering journey of Harvey Milk High School—a daring haven for LGBTQ+ students to flourish. Discover why queer spaces are not just vital; they’re groundbreaking. #LGBTQ #QueerSpaces
October 13, 2025 at 11:50 PM
Unveil the surprising connection between Mahatma Gandhi's peaceful tactics and the LGBTQ rights movement. From Pride marches to demonstrations, his methods have inspired generations to face challenges boldly. Discover how his nonviolent stance laid is so important today. #Equality #LGBTQ
October 12, 2025 at 5:37 PM
Emily Dickinson wasn't just a reclusive spinster; she was a daring poet. Her letters, especially to Susan Gilbert, reveal a rich queer history. Let's fully appreciate her: passionate, poetic, and complex. #EmilyDickinson #QueerHistory
October 11, 2025 at 5:03 PM
For decades, Doctor Who has been a sci-fi staple, yet it’s also a trailblazer in LGBTQ visibility. Characters like Captain Jack Harkness, Bill Potts, and the dynamic Doctor have been quietly queering the universe. Let's explore Doctor Who's LGBTQ impact and its significance! #DoctorWho #LGBTQ
October 6, 2025 at 11:50 PM
Before Grindr or Instagram, LGBTQ individuals discreetly gathered at Molly Houses—sanctuaries overseen by trailblazers like Mother Clap. Discover the remarkable tale of Margaret Clap, who bravely resisted harsh anti-gay laws to foster unity and kinship in 18th-century London! #LGBTQHistory #Pride
October 5, 2025 at 5:36 PM
Uncover how queer surrealists Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore transformed artistry into resistance against Nazi rule. Their bold, clever acts of rebellion made history—this tale will awaken your inner dissenter! #QueerArt #RebelSpirit
October 4, 2025 at 5:03 PM
In Galicia, Spain, on April 16, 1061, Pedro Díaz and Muño Vandilaz marked the earliest recorded same-sex marriage. Their vows were exchanged in a small chapel. This historic moment underscores enduring love and devotion before broad acceptance. #LGBTQHistory
September 29, 2025 at 11:50 PM
Sylvia Rivera, born July 2, 1951, was a pioneering transgender advocate and drag icon. Co-founding STAR with Marsha P. Johnson, she played a key role in the Stonewall Uprising and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Her commitment to the homeless and marginalized continues to inspire. #Pride
September 28, 2025 at 5:36 PM
"Philadelphia," starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, debuted on December 23, 1993. This drama tackled HIV/AIDS and homophobia. Hanks won an Oscar, and Bruce Springsteen's "Streets of Philadelphia" earned Best Original Song. #CinemaHistory #PhiladelphiaFilm
September 27, 2025 at 5:03 PM
Rudolf Nureyev, born March 17, 1938, East Siberia, became an iconic dancer who captivated global audiences. His 1961 defection from the USSR symbolized artistic freedom. His passionate life and relationships continue to inspire the LGBTQ community to live boldly. #DanceLegend #LGBTQInspiration
September 22, 2025 at 11:51 PM
Today, we celebrate the artistic duo Suzanne Alberte Malherbe and Lucy Renee Mathilde Schwob, known as Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore. This pair captivated 1920s Paris with their pioneering work on gender fluidity and identity, and courageously opposed the Nazis. #ArtHistory #AvantGarde
September 21, 2025 at 5:36 PM