Homophile movement

The Homophile movement was an early effort by LGBTQ+ individuals to advocate for acceptance, rights, and visibility at a time when homosexuality was largely criminalized and stigmatized. Emerging mainly in the 1950s and 1960s, it focused on fostering community, fighting discrimination, and promoting understanding. Unlike later liberation movements, Homophile groups sought equality within mainstream society and emphasized moral acceptance rather than radical change. Their work laid important groundwork for subsequent advocacy, helping to challenge negative stereotypes and begin a broader conversation about LGBTQ+ rights and social acceptance.