On a balmy night in San Francisco, August 1966, a group of transgender women fought back against a police raid at Compton's Cafeteria, a popular hang out of the time. The Rebellion at Compton's Cafeteria, as it was dubbed, marks what many believe was the beginning of the transgender equality movement.
Although the specific date and many of the details surrounding the Rebellion at Compton's Cafeteria have been essentially erased from history, it is TransGender Michigan's goal to let the bravery of these transwomen live on by educating others about this momentous event and about transgender identity. TransGender Michigan hopes to achieve this goal through the creation of a day devoted to increasing understanding about transgender identity and issues, which shall be called Transgender Awareness Day.
Transgender Awareness Day will be held annually on August 15 in honor of the Rebellion at Compton's Cafeteria. TransGender Michigan encourages organizations from all corners of the globe to celebrate Transgender Awareness Day through educational events and efforts.
Awareness Day Media Release 2008 Read the Media Release for the 2008 Awareness Day.
For more information about the Rebellion view the documentary "Screaming Queens: The Riot at Compton Cafeteria" by Susan Stryker.