“[Homosexuals] have moved from being a social movement to more of an interest group with established lobbying groups, political-action committees and a distinctive voting profile. It’s a group that is out and is exercising influence.” —Steve Sanders, Insight on the News, November 27, 2000

On June 27, 1969, police raided a gay bar in New York City called the Stonewall Inn to enforce vice laws against homosexual behavior. Such raids, in which police often harassed homosexuals, were common in the 1950s and 1960s. In this instance, however, the patrons of the bar rebelled against the police, and members of the surrounding community, most of whom were also gay, joined the revolt. The ensuing riot, which became known as the Stonewall Rebellion, lasted for three days and spawned a newly unified and empowered homosexual community. According to author Roger E. Biery, the event brought visibility and togetherness to...