Homophile

Homophile is a term that was used primarily in the 1950s and 1960s to describe individuals who were attracted to members of the same sex. The term was part of a broader movement that sought to promote the acceptance and rights of homosexual individuals. The homophile movement is considered a precursor to the modern LGBT rights movement.

Etymology

The word "homophile" is derived from the Greek words "homo," meaning "same," and "philia," meaning "love" or "affection." Unlike the term homosexual, which emphasizes sexual attraction, "homophile" was intended to highlight love and emotional connection.

History

The homophile movement began in the early 20th century but gained significant momentum in the 1950s and 1960s. Organizations such as the Mattachine Society and the Daughters of Bilitis were among the first to use the term "homophile" to describe their members and their goals. These groups focused on social acceptance, legal rights, and the decriminalization of homosexuality.

Mattachine Society

The Mattachine Society was one of the earliest homophile organizations in the United States. Founded in 1950 by Harry Hay and a group of friends in Los Angeles, the society aimed to protect and improve the rights of homosexuals. The organization published a magazine called ONE, Inc. and was involved in various legal battles to challenge discriminatory laws.

Daughters of Bilitis

The Daughters of Bilitis (DOB) was the first lesbian civil and political rights organization in the United States. Founded in 1955 by Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon in San Francisco, the DOB provided a safe space for lesbians to meet and discuss issues affecting their community. The organization also published a magazine called The Ladder.

Decline and Legacy

By the late 1960s, the term "homophile" began to fall out of favor as the gay liberation movement emerged. The new movement was more radical and confrontational, focusing on broader social change and the celebration of gay pride. Despite this shift, the homophile movement laid the groundwork for many of the advances in LGBT rights that followed.

Related Pages

• LGBT rights movement
• Gay liberation
• Mattachine Society
• Daughters of Bilitis
• Harry Hay
• Del Martin
• Phyllis Lyon
• ONE, Inc.
• The Ladder