LGBTQ American heritage refers to the cultural contributions and influences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in the United States. While national and state parks do not have a specific focus on LGBTQ American heritage, many parks have a rich history of LGBTQ individuals, and the National Park Service (NPS) and state park agencies have a mission to preserve, protect, and interpret these cultural resources.
Many national and state parks have significant connections to LGBTQ American heritage, including historical sites, cultural landscapes, and archeological sites. For example, the Stonewall National Monument in New York City, which commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots, an event widely considered as the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ rights movement.
Additionally, many national and state parks have connections to the history of specific LGBTQ individuals, such as the history of the LGBTQ rights activists, artists, and writers. These parks provide opportunities to learn about the experiences of these individuals, their contributions to the United States, and the challenges they faced.
The NPS and state park agencies have a responsibility to protect and preserve these cultural resources, and to provide opportunities for visitors to learn about and experience LGBTQ American heritage. This can include ranger-led tours, educational programs, and interpretive exhibits.
Overall, LGBTQ American heritage is an important part of the cultural fabric of the United States, and national and state parks play an important role in preserving, protecting, and interpreting these resources for future generations. However, it’s important to note that the representation and inclusion of LGBTQ American heritage in national and state parks is limited and there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure that the stories and contributions of LGBTQ individuals are recognized and celebrated in these public spaces.