Lilli Vincenz: LGBTQ+ Trailblazer
Lilli Vincenz, a courageous and pivotal figure in the early gay rights movement, passed away last week at the age of 85 in a care facility in Oakton, Virginia. Vincenz, born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1937, immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 12. Her journey to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights began when she joined the U.S. Army Women’s Corps, but her discharge after nine months due to her homosexuality fueled her commitment to activism.
In the early 1960s, Vincenz joined the Mattachine Society of Washington, a groundbreaking gay rights organization co-founded by Frank Kameny. She was one of the first lesbians to join the group, which predominantly consisted of gay men. Together, they organized the first demonstration for gay rights in 1965, picketing outside the White House with just 10 individuals, including Vincenz herself.
Her passion for advocacy and unyielding love for the LGBTQ+ community led her to become the editor of the Mattachine Society’s monthly newsletter, the Homosexual Citizen, in 1966. Later, she co-founded the Gay Blade, a newspaper that eventually evolved into the Washington Blade, the oldest LGBTQ+ newspaper in the country.
Beyond her activism, Vincenz also became a psychotherapist, dedicating her practice to empowering and counseling gay and lesbian individuals. Her commitment to her community remained unwavering, and she hosted regular gatherings at her home, which became a vibrant hub for lesbian life in Arlington, Virginia, during the 1970s.
Vincenz was not only an activist and therapist but also a prolific documentarian. She became known as the first lesbian videographer, capturing footage of early gay rights protests. Her films are now preserved in the Library of Congress, a testament to the significance of her work in the gay rights movement.
Throughout her life, Vincenz epitomized resilience and the courage to stand up for what she believed in. Her unwavering determination to bring visibility to the LGBTQ+ community paved the way for greater acceptance and understanding.
Her partner of 32 years, Nancy Ruth Davis, passed away in 2019, and she is survived by a nephew, three nieces, and a wide circle of friends. Lilli Vincenz leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, equality, and the belief that being gay is a beautiful way to love. As we mourn her passing, we celebrate her life and the indelible impact she has left on the LGBTQ+ community. Plans for a memorial service will be announced soon, honoring the life and contributions of this remarkable trailblazer.
Sources:
- Factora, J. (2023, July 5). Trailblazing lesbian activist Lilli Vincenz has died at 85. Them.
- Langer, E. (2023, June 30). Lilli Vincenz, early activist in gay rights movement, dies at 85. Washington Post.
- Image Credit: Taken from Facebook