Uncovering Our Riot History, The Compton Cafeteria Riots

The Compton Cafeteria Riots in San Francisco were the first documented queer rebellion in the U.S. This story is amazing, and perfectly demonstrates how riots at the right moment have the potential for sweeping radical change. Not as massive, influence wise, as the Stonewall riots a few years later, nonetheless the Compton riots forced dramatic policy change throughout San Francisco.

For the short wiki synopsis

More amazing background told by the director of "Screaming Queens" a documentary about the Compton Riots

I love that the riot was precipitated by a group of militant street hustlers and queens call the Vanguard (whom I wish I could find more info on), a group partially organized by the local radical priests from Glide Memorial Church. Geez, the 60's had it going on, my friends.


Memorial plaque dedicated the the Riot at Taylor and Turk St.'s in S.F.
*Special thanks to Lizzielove for this post idea.

Riot Art

Bloody Sunday (1938)