In the early 1950s, amidst a society rife with prejudice and legal persecution against homosexuals, a courageous group of individuals in Los Angeles dared to envision a platform for the gay community. This vision materialized as ONE Magazine, the first widely distributed pro-gay publication in the United States. Launched in January 1953 by ONE, Inc., the magazine became a lifeline for many, offering representation, information, and a sense of belonging during an era of pervasive discrimination. one.usc.edu
Founding Visionaries and Their Mission
ONE, Inc. was established in 1952 by a group of activists, including Martin Block, Tony Reyes, Dale Jennings, Don Slater, W. Dorr Legg, and Mattachine Society founder Harry Hay. The organization’s name was inspired by Thomas Carlyle’s aphorism: “A mystic bond of brotherhood makes all men one.” This sentiment reflected their mission to unify homosexuals into social action and provide a platform for dialogue and support. guides.loc.gov
Content That Connected and Empowered
ONE Magazine offered a diverse array of content, including essays, fiction, poetry, and news relevant to gay and lesbian readers. It addressed topics such as legal issues, relationships, and culture, providing a comprehensive resource for a disconnected group of people. By circulating this content, the magazine fostered a sense of community and visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals across the nation. one.usc.edu
Legal Battles: A Fight for Free Expression
In October 1954, the U.S. Post Office Department declared ONE Magazine “obscene” and refused to deliver it. ONE, Inc. challenged this decision, leading to a prolonged legal battle. In 1958, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in One, Inc. v. Olesen that the mere discussion of homosexuality was not obscene, marking the first time the Supreme Court explicitly ruled on homosexuality. This landmark decision not only allowed ONE to distribute its magazine but also paved the way for other controversial publications to be sent through the U.S. mail. daily.jstor.org
Educational Initiatives: Pioneering Homophile Studies
Beyond publishing, ONE, Inc. expanded its mission to education by establishing the ONE Institute of Homophile Studies in 1956. This academic institute organized classes, annual conferences, and published the ONE Institute Quarterly, a journal dedicated to the academic exploration of homosexuality. It became the first institution of higher learning in the United States to offer master’s and doctoral degrees in Homophile Studies, contributing significantly to the scholarly understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. en.wikipedia.org
Legacy: A Testament to Courage and Unity
The legacy of ONE Magazine is profound. It demonstrated the power of the press in uniting marginalized communities and advocating for civil rights. By providing a platform for LGBTQ+ voices, it fostered a sense of belonging and identity during a time of widespread persecution. Reflecting on this history underscores the importance of knowing our roots as a queer community. It reminds us that progress is achieved through courage, solidarity, and the unwavering belief in our right to exist and love freely.
Supporting the Be Proud! Movement
Today, as we continue to celebrate our identities and advocate for our rights, it’s crucial to support initiatives that provide safe spaces and foster community engagement.
The Be Proud! Movement a commitment to visibility, inclusion, and empowerment. Our mission is to amplify local LGBTQ+ stories, honor our history, and ensure our community continues to thrive in an ever-changing world. Our yearly celebration of our local queer community with our Free Be Proud! Fest. By donating to our campaign, you ensure that we can continue this important work and honor the legacy of pioneers like those behind ONE Magazine.
In the words of the founders of ONE, Inc., “Without a unifying voice, we are but isolated individuals; together, we are a force for change.” Let’s continue to be that force.
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