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Beyond the Closet Walking Tour

New To The Site! Washington DC, USA

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2 hours 30 minutes (Approx.)
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Overview

Today Washington DC is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly jurisdictions in the country with gay-friendly laws, an inclusive school curriculum, anti-discrimination protections, and marriage equality. But from the 1940s-1970s, this city was ground zero for actively uncovering closeted gay federal government employees and firing them without justification. On this walking tour, you’ll see Washington DC’s iconic government buildings through the eyes of the committed government servants who were persecuted because of their sexual orientation. You’ll see the sites where the brave few chose to fight back and demand their civil rights. And you’ll see where they built their own communities and paved the way for today’s more inclusive city. Our country chose fear over competence and denied the service of hundreds of eminently qualified researchers, diplomats, and leaders. But in the end, learn how this discrimination caused the LGBTQ community to organize, to unite, and to emerge from the closet.

What's Included

  • Guided walking tour only
  • Bottled water Customers should bring own water for consumption during tour
  • Snacks No food provided to guests during tour. Customers should bring food if needed for health purposes.

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Farragut Square, 912 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA

Open in Google Maps

Meet at southeast corner of Farragut Square directly across I Street from Tatte Bakery and Cafe..

End point

Dupont Circle North Metro Station, 1908-1998 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA

Start Times

What To Expect

Lafayette Square

Learn the experience of LGBTQ persecution during the 1940s-1960s and see the sight of the first protest in the US for LGBTQ a rights.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

White House

Learn of the first openly gay woman who served in a presidential administration.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Dupont Circle

Learn about the first gay bookstore in Washington DC and its community influence including starting the Capital Pride parade
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-486267P1

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