1981 – Formation and Early Advocacy
Gay and Lesbian Latinos Unidos (GLLU) is founded in Los Angeles, California, in response to the lack of representation of Latino LGBTQ+ voices in the broader gay rights movement.
GLLU emerges as one of the first grassroots organizations dedicated to addressing the intersection of LGBTQ+ and Latino identities.
The group focuses on political activism, community-building, and cultural preservation while addressing issues such as racism within the LGBTQ+ community and homophobia within Latino communities.
1982 – Establishing Community Spaces
GLLU begins hosting meetings, discussion groups, and social events to provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ Latinos.
The organization starts addressing issues such as immigration, HIV/AIDS awareness, and discrimination against LGBTQ+ Latinos.
1983-1985 – Political Activism and Outreach
GLLU members become involved in broader LGBTQ+ and Latino civil rights movements, advocating for anti-discrimination policies.
The organization begins forming coalitions with other LGBTQ+ and Latino groups to strengthen advocacy efforts.
1986 – HIV/AIDS Awareness and Support Services
Recognizing the disproportionate impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on Latino communities, GLLU begins outreach and education initiatives.
The group collaborates with health organizations to provide resources, testing, and support for those affected.
1987 – Participation in the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights
GLLU joins activists from across the country in Washington, D.C., to demand LGBTQ+ rights on a national level.
The organization calls for greater inclusion of Latino LGBTQ+ issues within the national movement.
Late 1980s – Cultural and Social Initiatives
GLLU hosts cultural events, including art shows, film screenings, and poetry readings, showcasing LGBTQ+ Latino artists and writers.
The group works to elevate the voices of LGBTQ+ Latinos in media and political spaces.
1990s – Expansion and Advocacy on Policy Issues
GLLU continues its advocacy on issues such as immigration rights, police brutality, and workplace discrimination affecting LGBTQ+ Latinos.
The organization engages in activism to combat the rise of anti-immigrant policies and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Mid-1990s – Organizational Challenges
GLLU faces internal conflicts regarding leadership and strategic direction, leading to difficulties in sustaining the organization.
Other Latino LGBTQ+ organizations begin emerging, continuing GLLU’s mission in different forms.
1999 – Dissolution and Legacy
GLLU formally disbands due to internal challenges and changing dynamics in the LGBTQ+ movement.
Former members go on to form or support new Latino LGBTQ+ organizations, ensuring the continuation of GLLU’s mission.
The organization’s work lays the foundation for future activism, inspiring groups such as Bienestar, Latino Equality Alliance, and others.
Archives & Oral Histories: The ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives at the USC Libraries house materials related to GLLU, including newsletters, meeting notes, and oral histories.
Academic Works: "Queer Brown Voices: Personal Narratives of Latina/o LGBT Activism" features essays from activists involved in organizations like GLLU.
Community Interviews: The LGBTQ+ Latino oral history projects at UCLA and the University of Texas also document the contributions of GLLU members.
Unidad: Gay and Lesbian Latinos Unidos (2022) is a documentary that chronicles the rise and influence of GLLU in Los Angeles.
Directed by Gregorio Davila, the film explores the organization’s activism, social impact, and lasting legacy in the LGBTQ+ and Latino communities.
The documentary features interviews with former members, historians, and activists, highlighting GLLU’s role in shaping LGBTQ+ Latino advocacy.
Unidad premiered at various film festivals and was later broadcast on PBS, bringing national attention to the untold stories of GLLU.
RISING COMMUNITIES, SOUTH L.A. DECIDES, and 1ST LA Best Start-Region 2, and Bienestar present an
UNIDAD Documentary
FILM SCREENING.
Join us for a special screening of "Unidad: Gay & Lesbian Latinos Unidos", a powerful documentary on the history and activism of LGBTQ+ Latinos in LA. Don't miss this inspiring film and discussion at Bienestar.
See you there!
3PM- 5:30PM
SCAN CODE TO RSVP- LIMITED SEATING AVAILABLE
02.22.2025
130 W. MANCHESTER AVE., LOS ANGELES, CA 90003
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1234175525219?aff=oddtdtcreator
https://mariojnovoa.wixsite.com/my-site