THE GAY LIBERATION BOOK-Online

In the years following the New York Stonewall Riots, publicly accessible and affirming LGBT literature was scarce. At a moment when visibility itself carried real risk, few published works spoke openly and unapologetically in support of gay liberation. 

In 1973, what books dared to advocate for gay liberation? The Gay Liberation Book answered that call.

 Edited by Gary (now Hatun) Noguera and Len Richmond, it brought together iconic figures of the time—John Lennon, Allen Ginsberg, Gore Vidal, Huey Newton, William S. Burroughs, and more—giving voice to a movement when visibility was dangerous. 

This anthology was a beacon at a time when same-sex relationships were criminalized. Today, this site preserves that legacy of fighting back against homophobia, bigotry, and sexism.

Who contributed to this historical work? From John Lennon’s contribution of two drawings and a short poem, to Huey Newton’s impact on Black liberation, each page answers the pressing questions of that time.

Yet, why does it still matter today? As of April 2026, at least 65 countries still criminalize same-sex acts. In some—like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and parts of Nigeria—the death penalty may apply. While enforcement varies, these laws continue to put LGBTQ people at serious risk. Additionally, countries like Uganda have recently increased penalties and state persecution against LGBTQ people.

Explore this archive and discover both the past and the continuing relevance of these voices. 

Ongoing updates and essays can be found in the Blog section.