Bisexual References Quietly Removed from Stonewall National Monument Website
The official website for the Stonewall National Monument—a landmark honoring the pivotal 1969 Stonewall uprising that played a major role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement—has recently been updated to erase all mention of bisexual people. This change follows a concerning trend of revising LGBTQ+ history, raising red flags among historians and advocacy groups. Earlier in the year, the National Park Service (NPS) also removed references to transgender individuals, deepening fears of historical distortion.
Part of a Larger Movement Challenging DEI Initiatives
The alteration of LGBTQ+ representation on the site appears to mirror broader political efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. These initiatives have been under increasing scrutiny since the Trump administration. Archived versions of the Stonewall website captured by the Wayback Machine in February show that “LGBTQ+” was shortened to “LGB.” Further modifications in April stripped references to the wider queer community, with only “lesbians and gays” acknowledged as leaders of the Stonewall uprising—excluding key trans and bisexual activists.
Key Figures Remain Visible but Are Left Unnamed
While the site has removed explicit mentions of bisexual and transgender identities, images of vital queer activists—including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera—still remain in the “Education” section. However, the absence of written recognition of their identities and contributions has ignited criticism. Activists argue that this disconnect between visuals and narrative feeds into a pattern of erasing the true diversity within the LGBTQ+ movement.
Widespread Scrubbing of LGBTQ+ Content Across Federal Sites
This change at the Stonewall site is not an isolated incident. A growing wave of LGBTQ+ content removals from federal websites has been documented in 2024. According to an investigation by Democracy Now, more than 8,000 pages featuring LGBTQ+ resources have been deleted this year alone. The missing content includes vital information about HIV prevention, anti-LGBTQ+ violence, and public health guidance, sparking concern from healthcare professionals and civil rights advocates alike.
Advocates Denounce the Erasure of LGBTQ+ History
Organizations like GLAAD, a media advocacy group for LGBTQ+ people, have condemned the website edits as a direct attempt to erase history and silence marginalized voices. A spokesperson emphasized that the omission dishonors those who fought for recognition, particularly trans women of color who played a central role in the LGBTQ+ liberation movement: “This deliberate whitewashing of history not only undermines our progress, but dismisses the very people who made it possible.”
Public Outcry and Rising Civic Action
The controversial site revisions have sparked a powerful response. Over 47,000 concerned individuals have signed a petition demanding the restoration of inclusive historical language on the Stonewall website. Public protests have also erupted, most notably in New York City outside the original Stonewall Inn. During one rally, long-standing transgender advocate Tanya Asapansa-Johnson Walker delivered a bold statement:
“We are here to stay, and we won’t be erased by a christo-fascist and neo-Nazi administration.”
Preserving a Full and Truthful LGBTQ+ Legacy
The Stonewall Monument is more than a landmark—it represents a historic turning point in queer resistance. Yet, the ongoing digital erasure of LGBTQ+ contributions poses a serious threat to our collective memory. Maintaining an inclusive and accurate record of LGBTQ+ history is critical not only for honoring the past but also for inspiring future generations. Now more than ever, public accountability and civic engagement are essential in protecting the integrity of this vital heritage.