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Activity Washington DC, USA

Beyond the Closet Walking Tour

5.0 (7 reviews) 2 h 30 min Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Beyond the Closet Walking Tour

About this activity

Today Washington DC is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly jurisdictions in the country with gay-friendly laws, an inclusive school curriculum, anti-discrimination protections, and marriage equality. But from the 1940s-1970s, this city was ground zero for actively uncovering closeted gay federal government employees and firing them without justification. On this walking tour, you’ll see Washington DC’s iconic government buildings through the eyes of the committed government servants who were persecuted because of their sexual orientation. You’ll see the sites where the brave few chose to fight back and demand their civil rights. And you’ll see where they built their own communities and paved the way for today’s more inclusive city. Our country chose fear over competence and denied the service of hundreds of eminently qualified researchers, diplomats, and leaders. But in the end, learn how this discrimination caused the LGBTQ community to organize, to unite, and to emerge from the closet.

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Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours LGBT Friendly Tours Zombie New Product Short term availability

At a glance

Duration
2 h 30 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 15 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
English
Operated by
Beyond The Landmarks

Ages: Adults (13–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Guided walking tour only

Not included

  • Not included: Bottled water: Customers should bring own water for consumption during tour
  • Not included: Snacks: No food provided to guests during tour. Customers should bring food if needed for health purposes.

Itinerary

  1. Lafayette Square

    15 min

    Learn the experience of LGBTQ persecution during the 1940s-1960s and see the sight of the first protest in the US for LGBTQ a rights.

  2. The White House

    10 min Admission not included

    Learn of the first openly gay woman who served in a presidential administration.

  3. Dupont Circle

    15 min

    Learn about the first gay bookstore in Washington DC and its community influence including starting the Capital Pride parade

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Meet at southeast corner of Farragut Square directly across I Street from Tatte Bakery and Cafe..

End point

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Wheelchair accessible

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Service animals allowed

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 7 reviews
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Beyond the Closet Walking Tour

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