Durham, North Carolina, will mark a significant moment in LGBTQ+ history this Saturday as the site of the state’s inaugural gay pride march is honored with a historical marker. This commemoration pays tribute to the courage and resilience demonstrated by the LGBTQ+ community in the face of adversity.
Photo Courtesy of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and the Allan Troxler Papers, LGBTQ Collection, North Carolina Collection, Durham County Library
The historical marker will honor the event known as ‘Our Day Out‘, which occurred on June 27, 1981. This landmark event was catalyzed by a tragic incident on April 12, 1981, when a homophobic attack at Little River resulted in the death of Ronald Antonevitch, a 46-year-old father, and injured three others. Although Antonevitch himself was not part of the LGBTQ+ community, the attack was perceived as being driven by homophobia.
The violence fueled a powerful response from North Carolina’s queer community, culminating in vigils at the Durham County Courthouse and the organization of the march. This moment marked a shift from sorrow to activism for many involved.
The commemorative marker will be placed at 501 West Main Street in Durham, near the Museum of Durham History, with the unveiling ceremony scheduled for 10 a.m. The same day, the LGBTQ Center of Durham will conduct a Pride Parade starting at noon at Duke University’s East Campus, celebrating the progress made since the initial march.
