The Stonewall Inn

Stuart, Tree & Dean

When my friends Stuart and Dean were visiting from the UK, we toured sites in New York City and took them into Greenwich Village.  This area is known for its colorful past.  In the 50s it was the home of the Beat Generation, Mafia controlled businesses and a non-conformist society of musicians and poets, known as the “Beatniks.”

We visited The Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street, a gay bar and National Historic Landmark. The Stonewall was the site of the 1969 riots that launched the gay rights movement.

 On June 28, 1969, the police raided the Inn as they had many times before.  However, on this day, the patrons fought back, fighting against the constant harassment by the police.

As a result, it directly inspired activist organizations, the first Pride marches leading to global awareness and the expansion of legal rights.

Today, The Stonewall Inn, remains a strong supporter of LGBTQ organizations not only in this country but globally. 

When we stepped inside, I was surprised to see it was no bigger than the neighborhood bars I remember from my old neighborhood.

It was about 1PM and there were only a few patrons there.  The bartender and patrons were friendly and treated us as if we were old friends.  The picture shown, is (L to R) Stuart, Fredd E. “Tree” Sequoia and Dean.

 Mr. “Tree” was one of the patrons who was on the dance floor on the day of the raid.

He’s still serving drinks and when asked, he’ll tell you his firsthand story, of the 6-day riot that took place there.

What did we learn from this?  That 57 years ago, this small bar in Greenwich Village and its patrons, took a stand against an unfair legal system that targeted and bullied the gay community.  One can’t help but feel that defiant spirit that lived within the walls of this very special place.

The effect of the riot still resonates for all human rights, not only in this country……but around the world.