Looking at this episode of "The American Experience", it's a bit shocking today. What I mean is that it's hard to believe life was that rough for gay Americans--especially for younger audiences watching the film. It wasn't just kids making fun of gay kids--but a systematic and harsh hatred of everything gay. You learn about the reaction of the psychiatric community to gay people--with electroshocks and hospitalizations in psychiatric facilities! To add insult to injury, the cops routinely beat up gay folks and incarcerated them. Now I had sympathy for the cops and politicians in some cases--sex in public restrooms is not good--whether you are gay or straight. But when homosexuals went into private clubs behind closed doors and STILL were beaten and arrested, there got to be a point where enough is enough--and this led to the famous Stonewall Uprising. Like the Black Power and hippie movements, the gays were sick of being harassed and were willing to fight back (literally) to get basic human rights.
Overall, this is an inspiring and well made documentary. And for any sane person, it is hard for anyone to justify violence and abuse--no matter what your opinions are. In that sense, this film is for everyone. Well worth seeing.
60s psychiatric response to homosexuality
Overall, this is an inspiring and well made documentary. And for any sane person, it is hard for anyone to justify violence and abuse--no matter what your opinions are. In that sense, this film is for everyone. Well worth seeing.
60s psychiatric response to homosexuality