On June 28, 1969, the New York City Police Department conducted a raid on the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in Greenwich Village. But this raid was different. This time, patrons refused to be led away in handcuffs. This time, they fought back and the scene became a riot that lasted for days. It also marked a turning point in the gay civil rights movement.
In recognition of Pride Month, the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA) offers specials focused on the LGBTQ+ community.
Stonewall Uprising: American Experience, 8 p.m., June 11, examines the events of the Stonewall Inn riots, 50-years after they occurred. Exactly one year later, America saw its first Gay Pride Parade as thousands marched up New York City’s Sixth Avenue.
American Masters: Terrence McNally – Every Act of Life, 8 p.m., June 14, explores four-time Tony-winning playwright Terrance McNally’s six groundbreaking decades in theater. This film delves into McNally’s pursuit of love and inspiration, LGBTQ+ activism, triumph over addiction and the power of the arts to transform society.
The Lavender Scare, 8 p.m., June 18, recounts the untold story of how tens of thousands of homosexual federal workers were either fired or denied employment in the 1950s, stirring outrage in the gay community and starting an LGBTQ+ rights movement with an unlikely hero at the forefront.
POV: The Gospel of Eureka, 9 p.m., June 24, spotlights how both drag shows and passion plays coexist in an Arkansas town. With verve, humor and unfailing compassion, The Gospel of Eureka builds unexpected bridges between religious faith and sexual orientation.
OETA provides essential educational content and services that inform, inspire and connect Oklahomans to ideas and information that enrich our quality of life. We do this by consistently engaging Oklahomans with educational and public television programming, providing educational training and curriculum, outreach initiatives and online features that collectively encourage lifelong learning. For more information about education curriculum and programs, local productions, digital television, community resources and show schedules explore OETA.tv or visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.