“I believe that we must be the same activists in our deaths that we were in our lives.”
– Leonard Matlovich 1987
Along with its other claims to fame, why, when, and how did Congressional Cemetery become even
more historic for attracting a still-growing number of out LGBTQ+ residents; the largest known in the world, and a distinction so exceptional that even mainstream media repeatedly wonder at it?
June’s guest speaker, gay historian Michael Bedwell, will describe its origins in legendary Paris cemetery Père Lachaise and detail the three reasons why his late friend, former Air Force Technical Sergeant Leonard Matlovich, the first service member to purposely out himself to fight the American military’s ban on gay men, lesbians, and bisexuals, chose Congressional over Arlington.
His grave has been the focal point for several historic gay rights events, the site of the legal wedding of two men, and is the starting point for DC Front Runners’ annual Pride Run—though many of them were born after he died and have no idea who he was. Illustrated with personal photos along with audio and video clips, Michael will also discuss the significance of Historic Congressional Cemetery as the location of not just Leonard’s internationally iconic stone but also the Veterans Administration cenotaph for Leonard’s mentor and the father of the modern gay rights movement Frank Kameny, and the final resting place of three additional Movement pioneers: multi-achieving Barbara Gittings and her life partner Kay Tobin Lahusen and future resident Randy Wicker who led the first organized gay rights protest in the world in 1964. Behind the cover of TIME magazine, beyond the front pages of newspapers from The New York Times to the Big Spring, Texas Herald, away from national network news screens, and out of handcuffs in front of the White House, what was the man like who inspired their all coming here?
Tickets are only $5 and all proceeds go to benefitting our non-profit mission of historical preservation and education. Space is limited so be sure to reserve your spot today! The event is rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited and dogs are not allowed to attend the event unless they are a service animal.
Keynote remarks will take place inside the Chapel, and the walking tour will take place on the grounds. After his remarks, Bedwell will be joined by one of our docents for a tour of HCC’s LGBTQ+ graves, culminating in a wreath laying at Leonard Matlovich’s grave. Please come prepared with comfortable clothing and shoes, as the tours often stray from the main paths.
Some of Michael’s history articles:
The Imitation Alan Turing vs. the Real Alan Turing: Victim vs. Hero
How Alfred Kinsey armed the early gay rights movement with research
Black lesbian Ernestine Eckstein was protesting when most gays thought protests were crazy
Remembering transgender pioneer Christine Jorgensen
You may reserve your spot below.
