Claiming space for LGBTQ+ stories in Salt Lake City
History is written in the places we pass every day—the streets where change was sparked, the buildings where communities gathered, and the spaces where resilience was born. Yet, for too long, LGBTQ+ history has been pushed to the margins, unrecognized and unseen. Now, Salt Lake City is offering a powerful opportunity to change that.
The Salt Lake City Historical Markers Pilot Program, launched by the Mayor’s Office of Access & Belonging in partnership with the City Council and the Salt Lake City Human Rights Commission, is calling on local organizations to submit proposals for new historical markers. This initiative seeks to preserve local history, engage the community, and incorporate diverse perspectives. It’s an unprecedented chance for LGBTQ+ individuals and groups to ensure our stories are acknowledged and celebrated in the city’s historical landscape.
For the LGBTQ+ community, the significance of this program cannot be overstated. We have long fought for visibility, recognition, and belonging. Now, we have the chance to mark the spaces that have shaped our journey—the gathering places, advocacy hubs, and moments of courage that have defined our past and continue to inspire our future.
Why LGBTQ+ Historical Markers Matter
From the earliest gay rights organizations to the vibrant and defiant voices of the AIDS activism era, Salt Lake City has a rich but often untold LGBTQ+ history. Think about the bars and coffeehouses where LGBTQ+ people found refuge and family when society shut them out. Think about the homes and offices where grassroots activists worked tirelessly to fight discrimination. Think about the pivotal moments in our city—pride marches, legal victories, and acts of protest—that deserve to be honored.
LGBTQ+ historical markers do more than commemorate the past. They tell our youth that they are part of something bigger, that their struggles and triumphs are woven into the fabric of this city. They educate the broader community, fostering empathy and understanding. They ensure that the sacrifices and contributions of our elders are not forgotten. They affirm that we belong here.
How You Can Help Make It Happen
The Salt Lake City Historical Markers Pilot Program is accepting submissions from businesses, nonprofits, and special interest groups. This means LGBTQ+ organizations, advocacy groups, and community spaces have a unique opportunity to champion our history.
Do you know of a place with historical significance to the LGBTQ+ community in Salt Lake City? Maybe it’s the location of a pivotal LGBTQ+ rights case, a beloved queer-owned establishment that shaped local culture, or the site of an early Pride event. If so, now is the time to act.
The deadline to submit a request for a historical marker is Friday, February 28. Submissions will be assessed based on historical significance, authenticity, documentation, accessibility, and community support. Two finalists will be awarded plaques to ensure these important stories are permanently embedded in Salt Lake City’s landscape.
Let’s Make History Together
Imagine walking through Salt Lake City and seeing LGBTQ+ history recognized in the public space — not just in archives, not just in personal recollections, but as an integral part of the city’s story. Imagine visitors and future generations learning about the pioneers of our movement, the safe havens that provided community, and the battles fought for equality.
This is our chance to make that vision a reality. Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and create a legacy for the future. If you or your organization are interested in submitting a proposal, visit [insert relevant city website] to access the request form and learn more.
Salt Lake City’s history includes us. Now, it’s time to make sure the city reflects that truth. Let’s claim our space, one historical marker at a time.
Information on the program can be found here.
