The Lavender Scare

The Lavender Scare refers to a period in the 1950s during the Cold War when the U.S. government targeted and persecuted gay individuals within its ranks, particularly in federal agencies. Authorities believed that homosexuality was a security risk, associating it with potential Communist ties and moral corruption. As a result, thousands were fired from their jobs or forced to resign due to their sexual orientation. This campaign was part of a broader climate of fear and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, which contributed to lasting stigma and civil rights struggles for the community.