Durham has long been a hub for activism, diversity, and community, and its LGBTQIA+ history is no exception. From the earliest days of the gay rights movement in North Carolina, Durham played a vital role in creating spaces for visibility, safety, and celebration. Today, Pride in Durham is a vibrant expression of that history, bringing together neighbors, families, and allies from across the Bull City.
What is Durham’s LGBTQIA+ history?
Obviously there were gay people in Durham always, but communities weren’t openly documented before the 1970s. Oral history tells us there was a secret gay club in Durham called the Ponderosa in the 1960s in what is now the Hope Valley neighborhood. In the 1970s, many gay activist clubs formed, especially tied to Duke, NCCU, and other Triangle universities. The longest-lasting is the Duke Gay Alliance, which started in 1972.
North Carolina’s first gay and lesbian march called “Our Day Out” happened in 1981 in downtown Durham. In 1986, the first annual Pride march occurred in Durham called “Out Today, Out to Stay.”
How is Pride celebrated in Durham today?
Each year, Durham Pride takes over downtown with a colorful parade, street festival, and live performances that reflect the energy and resilience of the community (hosted by the LGBT Center of Durham). Unlike the national Pride events that occur in June, Durham Pride is hosted in September so that all of the Duke and NCCU students can participate.
Pride is more than a parade—it’s also about workshops, art shows, and local businesses standing proudly in solidarity. Families march together, churches and nonprofits show their support, and Bull City’s creativity shines through everything from music to drag shows. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Durham Pride is a welcoming space to celebrate love, identity, and community.
Why show your pride with Durham bumper stickers?
Pride isn’t only celebrated once a year—it’s something many in Durham live every day. Designs like “Durham is Proud” and “Proud Dad” or “Proud Mom” help neighbors show their support for LGBTQIA+ loved ones and the wider community. Just as Durham’s history is built on visibility and courage, these small but powerful statements remind everyone that Pride is still alive in the Bull City.
Where can you learn more about Durham LGBTQIA+ history?
For more in-depth coverage of Durham’s LGBT+ history and community and to learn how you can support LGBT+ rights, check out these resources:
LGBTQIA+ People in North Carolina
Pauli Murray Center for Social Justice
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