June is Pride Month, and we’re celebrating by sharing stories from LGBTQ+ people finding peace and acceptance with themselves, their families, and the people they love — and sometimes, making history in the process. These conversations are all about finding love, your people, and your place in the world. Dive into memorable and touching stories from our LGBTQ+ community.
An Honest Life
When Tony Perri first told his childhood priest he was gay, he was told, “be careful who you tell that to, son.” Seventeen years later, he came out to his wife and eventually his children. Tony’s honesty with his family paved the way for his grandson, Jeffrey, to live his life openly and be proud of his sexuality. The two came to StoryCorps to reflect on how Tony’s life has paved the way for Jeffrey.
Still the One
After 10 years of marriage and two children, Les and Scott were struggling. Les had a secret that caused him to fall into a deep depression, pulling away from his family. Finally, Scott confronted Les, and their family changed forever. At StoryCorps, their family talked about how they supported Les throughout his gender transition and how love served as the foundation of their relationships.
A Life of Honor
When Joseph Patton joined the Navy in 1955, he had to serve in silence. At the time, the LGBTQ+ community could not be open while in the military. Joseph remembers the pride he took in his service and the beauty and joy that love has brought to his life.
A Good Man
Bryan Wilmoth and his seven younger siblings were raised in a strict, religious home. At StoryCorps, Bryan talks with his brother Mike about what it was like to reconnect years after their dad kicked Bryan out for being gay.
StoryCorps Podcast: Love and a Life Complete
Many people come to StoryCorps to have a conversation with someone who’s been meaningful in their lives. Some of our favorite interview moments come from partners and spouses — especially when they’re discussing matters of the heart.
A Family Transition
In 1997, Les and Scott GrantSmiths’ marriage was on the rocks. They had been together for ten years and were raising two children. But Les was hiding something: although he was born female, he felt like a man in the wrong body.
The Saint of Dry Creek
As a teenager, Patrick Haggerty began to understand he was gay — something he thought he was hiding well. One day, he learned that his father could see him more clearly than he realized.
StoryCorps Podcast: We’re Still Here
A collection of stories from trans women of color, who have often been the first to stand up for equality, and the last to be recognized for their contributions.
Loving Unconventionally
Walter Naegle recounts to his niece Ericka what it was like falling in love with the iconic civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, in a time where marriage between two men was impossible.
A Life Worth Living
MJ Seide never thought that she would live a happy, fulfilling life. Then she met her future partner, who at the time had been married to a man and raising children.
After Facing A Difficult Coming Out, One Couple Changed A Mother’s Heart
Leslye Huff and her partner, Mary Ostendorf, met in 1983. Leslye was open about her feelings for Mary, while Mary felt less comfortable with public displays of affection and had not told many people in her life about her sexuality, including her family.
Growing Up Gabe
Chris López always knew there was something different about her youngest child, Gabe. Assigned female at birth, Gabe felt like he was a boy.
StoryCorps Podcast: No One’s Going to Stop Me
Many of our LGBTQ+ stories center the voices of elders. Let’s look to the future, and hear what the next generation has to say.
Love Lost, and Found
Sue McConnell and Kristyn Weed are best friends and Vietnam-era veterans. Although they didn’t serve in the war together, they share a story of courage — on and off the battlefield.
Remembering a Gay Icon in Mother Bryant
At 82 years old, Alexei Romanoff came to StoryCorps with his husband, David Farah, to remember the person who taught him to be proud of who he is.
The Door She Opened
At the age of 63, Dee Westenhauser came out as a transgender woman. She remembers growing up in El Paso, Texas in the 1950s, and the one person who made her feel like herself.
Pink Lipstick, Fur Coats, and Authenticity
Kiyan Williams had a conversation with their friend Darnell Moore about growing up feeling different from other kids and grappling with his family’s expectations. Today, Kiyan works with LGBTQ+ youth in New York City.