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Today in History: 750,000 Rally in D.C. for LGBT Civil Rights

10/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 11, 1987, approximately 750,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C., for the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, known as "The Great March." This significant rally highlighted the fight for LGBTQ civil rights and brought national attention to AIDS activism, particularly through the involvement of ACT UP and subsequent civil disobedience at the Supreme Court.

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Story summary

On October 11, 1987, approximately 750,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C., for the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, known as "The Great March." This significant rally highlighted the fight for LGBTQ civil rights and brought national attention to AIDS activism, particularly through the involvement of ACT UP and subsequent civil disobedience at the Supreme Court.