Virginia’s first historical marker focused on LGBTQ+ history coming to Arlington

ARLINGTON, Va. ( DC News Now ) — The Virginia Department of Historic Resources said five new historical markers will be put up in the state , including one that is the first to focus on the history of the LGBTQ+ community.

The marker, sponsored by Arlington County Historic Preservation Program, acknowledges the contributions of Dr. Lilli Vincenz.

Vincenz was a journalist, filmmaker, and psychotherapist who participated in the first gay rights protest at the White House in 1965. She co-founded the Washington Blade newspaper in 1969, and her documentaries featuring recordings of significant marches brought visibility to the gay rights movement.

Vincenz, who lived in Arlington County, established and hosted the Gay Women’s Open House in her home in Columbia Heights West from 1971 to 1979. The weekly gatherings allowed lesbians, bisexuals, and women questioning their sexuality to meet in comfort and safety. The meetings fostered the development of the region’s openly LGBTQ+ community.

Vincenz died in 2023 at the age of 85.

The historical marker’s location is set to be located in the area of 817-829 S. Carlin Springs Rd.

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