Queermunity's third LGBTQIA+ History Month Top Pick is the ever inspiring William Dorsey Swan, chosen by our Co-Creator, Michael Cerasi.
William Dorsey Swann (c. 1858) was an American gay liberation activist. Born into slavery, he was the first person in the United States to lead a queer resistance group and the first known person to self-identify as a ‘queen of drag’.
During the 1880s and 1890s, Swann organised a series of balls in Washington, D.C. These events were mostly attended by men who were formerly enslaved, and were gathering to dance in their satin and silk dresses. Since the events were secretive, invitations were usually quietly made at places like the YMCA.
Swann was arrested in police raids numerous times, including in the first documented case of arrests for female impersonation in the United States on April 12, 1888. In 1896, he was falsely convicted and sentenced to ten months in jail for ‘keeping a disorderly house’, i.e., running a brothel. After his sentencing, he requested a pardon from President Grover Cleveland. This request was denied, but Swann was the first American on record who pursued legal and political action to defend the LGBTQ+ community's right to gather.
"Swann was the first American on record who pursued legal and political action to defend the LGBTQ+ community's right to gather."
The term ‘drag’ and the balls within this drag community are still extremely prevalent throughout the LGBTQIA+ community and aid in people’s sense of acceptance, self expression and liberation. William Dorsey Swan inspires all of us to support our community and we must continue his legacy today to gain equality and inclusion for all.
Article Written By Michael Cerasi
(He/Him)