In the 1930’s, queer subculture began to disappear, and gay and lesbian communities emerged in Winnipeg.
“The hill” behind the legislature was a common cruising site for gay folks from 1930 to 1970. The golden boy served as a signpost for same-sex experiences at night. Because the location became known to the public, violent attacks here became more frequent and severe.
The Legislature is also where those of us in Winnipeg meet for our Pride rally before the Pride march every June. In August 1987, about 250 people marched for Winnipeg’s first Pride Day.
Speaking of Pride, here is a short documentary about the Stonewall Rebellion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjRv7dJTync&ab_channel=LGBTCenterNYC
Sources:
* Korinek, Valerie, J.. Prairie Fairies : A History of Queer Communities and People in Western Canada, 1930-1985
* https://pridewinnipeg.com/about-us/
* https://umanitoba.ca/libraries/units/archives/digital/gay_lesbian/violence.html
