LGBTQ+ Black History Month Day 28: Ruth Ellis

It may be the last official day of LGBTQ+ Black History month, but never stop recognizing, never stop researching, and never stop celebrating the lives of the people who made a difference, our people.

This is our history, don't forget. 

And keep them in mind when it comes to our future,

We can change things for the better.

Alright, onto the last but not least, LGBTQ+ Black historical icon:

Day 28, Ruth Ellis

Ruth Ellis

Born July 23, 1899- October 5, 2000

Activist 

"Ruth Ellis, who lived to be 101, was credited with being the oldest known lesbian and LGBT civil rights activist.

Ellis was born in Springfield, Illinois, at the end of the 19th century—the youngest of four children and the only girl. Her parents were born in Tennessee during the last years of slavery. Ellis’s father was the first African-American mail carrier in Springfield.

Ellis attended Springfield High School at a time when very few African-Americans enrolled in secondary education. She was aware of her sexual orientation by the time she was 16. Ellis remembered her high school gym teacher as her first female attraction.

In the early 1920’s, Ellis met Ceciline “Babe” Franklin. They became friends and lovers for more than 35 years.  

When Ellis moved to Detroit in the 1930’s, Babe joined her. The couple bought a house and Ellis started a printing business. She was the first woman in Michigan to own and operate a printing company.

Their house became the local hangout for African-American gays and lesbians. Known as the “gay spot,” Ellis opened her home for parties and dances, and never turned down a gay or lesbian friend who needed a place to stay.    

In the latter part of her life, Ellis became a well-known figure in the GLBT community, first locally, then nationally.  She attended events and programs across the country, often as a speaker or special guest. She enjoyed dancing and socializing, even in her old age.

In 1999, Ellis's life was made the subject of the documentary “Living With Pride: Ruth C. Ellis @ 100,” directed by Yvonne Welbon. The film was screened at film festivals worldwide, and won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the San Francisco International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival in 1999.

Ellis lived in three centuries; she passed away in 2000. The Ruth Ellis Center honors her life and is dedicated to serving homeless LGBT youth and young adults."

"The only way we can get anyplace is by being together....

Gay people have to get in there just like anybody else. We have to work. 

We need more businesses. 

Scientists, chemists, things like that.

 If we could get more gay people in our politics, 

I think it would help a lot....And be honest and caring. Try to love people. 

Have a happy life if you can in this world."

-Ruth Ellis

Info from: lgbthistory.com