The Daughters of Bilitis

The Daughters of Bilitis (DOB) was the first lesbian civil and political rights organization in the United States, founded in 1955 in San Francisco. It aimed to provide support, education, and advocacy for lesbian women at a time when homosexuality was largely stigmatized and criminalized. The organization offered a safe space for socializing, networking, and sharing experiences. The DOB also published a magazine, "The Ladder," which addressed issues affecting lesbians and helped raise awareness about their rights. The group's efforts contributed to greater visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and played a significant role in the broader LGBTQ+ rights movement.