Discuss the evolution of gay and lesbian rights in the United States. What events, rulings, and government actions have affected this struggle? In what way has public opinion played a role in this group's struggle for rights?

What will be an ideal response?

An ideal response will:
1, Note that the contemporary gay and lesbian rights movement began with the Stonewall Riots in 1969 and that the movement picked up steam as the gay community reacted to the HIV/AIDS virus as well as the Court's decision to uphold the Georgia ban against same-sex sexual practices in Bowers v. Hardwick (1986).
2, Discuss how the movement deployed a range of tactics to gain the same civil rights protections as those enjoyed by the African American community.
3, Note that the movement has made substantial gains in numerous areas and that these gains have been aided by Supreme Court decisions overturning part of the Defense of Marriage Act in addition to the congressional repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy.
4, Explain how public opinion, especially in recent years, has become considerably more supportive of the goals of the gay and lesbian rights movement.