ABSTRACT
LGBTQ rights have come to the forefront of the American consciousness and their treatment ranges from acceptance to disenfranchisement. Beginning with a brief discussion of the historical context of gay and lesbian rights and events like the Stonewall riots of 1969, the chapter looks at LGBTQ issues and challenges from 2000 to 2015. The chapter is approached through a heterosexist perspective and moves readers to self-assessment of their thinking about LGBTQ community and issues. LGBTQ news stories and the implications for schooling are addressed, such as same-sex marriage (Supreme Court ruling), transgender rights, and gay pride.
Key wWords: LGBTQ, Stonewall rRiots, same-sex marriage, AIDSids, activism, Ryan White, Matthew Shepard, policies, laws, hate
