The Stonewall Riots: Coming Out in the Streets

Pitman takes a unique narrative approach to the Stonewall riots by introducing a series of meaningful objects associated with the historical event. The first of the objects is the Jefferson Livery Stable on Christopher Street, which eventually became the Stonewall Inn. Subsequent items of focus include a photograph of protestors; a statement of purpose from the Daughters of Bilitis, a gay women’s organization; an NYPD nightstick (“officers were dressed in full riot gear” during the event); and a New York Times article reporting the raid. Many of the objects are symbolic cultural artifacts, such as Judy Garland’s dress from The Wizard of Oz: “many people in the LGBT community see themselves and their experiences reflected in The Wizard of Oz.” Pitman’s fresh storytelling brings emotion and depth to the history of a movement and the establishment that served as an epicenter for social change. Back matter provides a timeline, significant notes on each object, and lists of additional resources. Ages 10–up. [em](May) [/em]