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LGBTQ

Events

Long lauded for its progressiveness, Iowa City attracts members of the LGBTQ community as a destination for its gay nightlife, well-established PrideFest, and multitude of cultural opportunitiesThe Advocate has listed Iowa City among the “Gayest Cities in America” for being infused with intellectual curiosity. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation scored Iowa City a 100 out of 100 on the 2018 Municipal Equality Index (MEI) Scorecard.

Daniel Hoffman-Zinnel, executive director of One Iowa, stated to Thrillist, “The town has absolutely been a trailblazer for civil rights in Iowa. The first female attorney admitted to a state bar in America was in Iowa City. It’s just got a good legacy of advancement and it’s been ahead of the curve for the LGBTQ movement.” Thrillist lists Iowa City as the “most gay friendly city in Iowa.”

One year after the Stonewall Riots, Iowa City residents established what is now Iowa City PrideFest…making it one of the oldest and longest running Pride events of its kind not only in the Midwest, but in the nation.

A brief history of LGBTQ events in Iowa City (Source: OutHistory.org):

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1967The Iowa Defender, an alternative newspaper, publishes a ground-breaking article, “Lesbianism in Iowa City.”

1970: Gay Liberation Front at the University of Iowa becomes the first gay student group in the United States to be officially recognized by a university. The organization’s entry in the 1970 homecoming parade kicks off what is now Iowa City PrideFest.

1971: A women’s center serving as a meeting place and clearinghouse for women’s activities opens.

1973: The Lesbian Alliance is formed and later works within the Women’s Resource and Action Center as the lesbian voice for programs such as The Rape Victim Advocacy Program, Domestic Violence Project, and Take Back the Night.

1975: The Midwest Gay Pride Conference in Iowa City attracts 800 attendees.

1977: Iowa City’s city council passes the state’s first anti-discrimination ordinance to include sexual preference.

1978: The Iowa Legislature enacts a comprehensive criminal code revision which repeals the consensual sodomy law. The law takes effect 25 years before the US Supreme Court strikes down Texas’ sodomy law as unconstitutional.

1978: Gay Affiliates of Iowa, Iowa’s first stateside gay rights advocacy organization, is founded in Iowa City.

1984: The Gay People’s Union at the University of Iowa educate gay men about HIV/AIDS.

1985: University of Iowa approves a campus-wide policy banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

1986: Bev Arthur and Martin Arthur co-author the book “Mama’s Boy” chronicling Martin’s coming out as a gay man based on a letter he wrote in 1974 as a student at the University of Iowa.

1991: Domestic partner benefits are extended to same-sex couples employed by the University of Iowa and becomes the first public university in the nation to implement such benefits.

2009: Iowa becomes the third state in the US to legalize same-sex marriage.  Among the plaintiffs who successfully challenged the state are Dawn and Jen BarbouRoske of Iowa City.

INSANELY CURIOUS

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Delectable Eats

With options ranging from comfort food and traditional staples to unexpected combinations coupled with the freshness of local ingredients, your taste buds are sure to be quite pleased.

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FIND THINGS TO DO

If you haven’t been here lately, you’ll want to experience the eclectic, collegiate spirit of Iowa City and the University of Iowa combined with the shopping and recreational attractions there is adventure around every corner.

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FASHION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Shopping in Iowa City’s curious communities includes options from local sellers as well as large retailers. Find the perfect gift for someone special or a unique piece for your collection!

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Iowa City and its curious communities are full of events year-round. You’ll find events ranging from author readings and workshops to musical performances and athletic competitions.

Shop Think Iowa City

Your one stop shop for Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty area themed merchandise.

Order online at shopthinkiowacity.com. Ship to you or pick up at our visitors center.

Represent your community now with Shop Think Iowa City!

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Iowa City/Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

900 1st Ave. Hayden Fry Way Coralville, IA 52241

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