Alvin Ailey

1931-1989

American dancer and choreographer who drew upon his black cultural heritage to revolutionize African-American participation in 20th century performance

W. H. Auden 

1907-1973

Anglo-American poet whose brilliant insights, political engagement and unsurpassed technical virtuosity in nearly every verse form influenced a generation of writers.

Josephine Baker

1906-1975

African-American born French dancer, singer, actress, Resistance fighter and world-famous entertainer who refused to perform for segregated audiences

James Baldwin

1924–1987

Eloquent novelist, essayist, poet, social critic, civil rights leader and passionate advocate for racial equality and human rights for gays.

Gladys Bentley

1907-1960

Pioneering pianist and blues singer of the Harlem Renaissance who challenged established gender roles with her appearance and choice of material.

Glenn Burke

1952-1995

First openly gay major league baseball player whose raised hand, after a home run, led to the invention of the high five.

Roger Casement

1864–1916

Irish patriot, diplomat and pioneering activist for the human rights of indigenous peoples, martyred for his pivotal role in Ireland’s 1916 Easter Rising.

George Choy

1960–1993

Passionate activist for queer Asians and Pacific Islanders and AIDS awareness who was instrumental in bringing LGBT counseling programs into San Francisco public high schools.

Quentin Crisp

1908-1999

Writer, lecturer and raconteur whose flamboyance and caustic wit attracted public interest in his views about social manners, style and conformity.

Divine

1945–1988

Singer and actor whose exceptional magnetism, radical artistry and flamboyant drag persona celebrated queer culture in film and theatrical appearances.