7 unsung LGBT figures who were instrumental in Black history

James Baldwin

The African-American author and civil rights activist often highlighted the challenges of blacks, gays, and bisexual men. Many of his books, essays, and interviews were criticized because they openly discussed homosexuality and homophobia with so much passion. By the early 1960s, Baldwin had become a spokesperson for civil rights who was in favour of non-violence. One of the greatest writers of the 20th century, Baldwin received several awards and literary honours for his writings, including his best-selling essay, The Fire Next Time.

Audre Lorde

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