Part 1: Celebrating Past and Present Queer Icons with Models1

Throughout history, LGBTQAI+ individuals have challenged norms, broken barriers, and redefined the course of culture, politics, and human rights. For Pride Month, we’re shining a light on some of the incredible icons who’ve made a real difference—whether by standing up for equal rights, changing the way we think, or simply being themselves in times when that wasn’t easy. These individuals helped shape the world we live in today, and their impact continues to inspire people everywhere

April Ashley

April Ashley was a pioneering British transgender woman and model who broke barriers in the 1960s when being openly trans was almost unheard of. As one of the first trans women to gain public recognition, she challenged society’s rigid ideas about gender and helped pave the way for greater visibility and acceptance of transgender people. April’s courage in sharing her story and living authentically made her a true trailblazer, inspiring countless others to embrace their true selves despite the challenges they face.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is a transgender and non-binary actor, model, and activist known for their role in the hit series Pose, which highlights LGBTQAI+ ballroom culture. As the first trans person on the cover of Elle magazine and a vocal advocate against performative allyship, Moore uses their platform to push for real inclusion and representation. Beyond acting, they founded Beetlefruit Media to tell marginalized stories and have worked with major fashion brands like Ralph Lauren. Indya’s bold visibility and activism continue to inspire and advance LGBTQAI+ rights and representation in media and fashion.

Marsha P. Johnson

Marsha P. Johnson was a fearless Black transgender woman and activist who played a huge role in the fight for LGBTQAI+ rights. She was one of the key figures in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, which helped spark the modern LGBTQAI+ movement. Marsha was known for her bold personality, kindness, and dedication to helping others—especially homeless LGBTQAI+ youth and those struggling with poverty. She also co-founded STAR (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries) to support trans people in need. Marsha’s legacy lives on as a symbol of resistance, love, and the ongoing fight for equality.

Gilbert Baker

Gilbert Baker was an artist and activist best known for creating the iconic rainbow flag, which has become a worldwide symbol of LGBTQAI+ pride and unity. He designed the flag in 1978 as a way to represent the diversity and beauty of the LGBTQAI+ community. Gilbert believed in using art as a form of protest and expression, and his rainbow flag continues to wave proudly at Pride events and beyond, reminding people everywhere to be proud of who they are.

Freddie Mercury

Freddie Mercury, the legendary frontman of Queen, was a ground breaking figure in music and a powerful icon for the LGBTQAI+ community. With his electrifying stage presence, incredible voice, and unapologetic individuality, he challenged traditional ideas of masculinity and sexuality in rock music. Though he kept much of his personal life private, Freddie’s openness about living life on his own terms helped pave the way for greater visibility and acceptance of queer identities. His legacy, especially following his death from AIDS-related illness in 1991, brought global attention to the HIV/AIDS crisis and inspired more open conversations about queer health, love, and pride.

Maureen Colquhoun

Maureen Colquhoun was a trailblazer in British politics and made history as the first openly lesbian Member of Parliament in the UK. Elected in the 1970s, she wasn’t afraid to speak up for women’s and LGBTQAI+ rights, even when it was controversial. Maureen pushed for progressive policies like better representation for women and support for the LGBTQAI+ community at a time when those issues were often ignored.

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen was a ground breaking British fashion designer known for his bold creations. Openly gay, McQueen used fashion as a form of self-expression and storytelling, often challenging norms around beauty, gender, and identity. His work blended art and emotion, and he wasn’t afraid to push boundaries or explore dark, powerful themes. McQueen’s influence went far beyond the runway—he helped open up space in the fashion world for LGBTQAI+ creativity and visibility, inspiring countless artists and designers to embrace who they are and think outside the box.

Justin Fashanu

Justin Fashanu was a talented English footballer who made history as the first professional footballer in the UK to come out as gay while still playing. In 1990, his decision to live openly was incredibly brave, especially in a sport that has long struggled with homophobia. Despite facing discrimination and backlash, Justin’s courage broke barriers and sparked important conversations about sexuality in sports. Though his life ended tragically, his legacy lives on as a symbol of strength and honesty, inspiring efforts to make football—and all sports—more inclusive for LGBTQAI+ athletes.

Elton John

Elton John is a global music icon and one of the most successful singer-songwriters of all time, known for his flamboyant style, powerful performances, and countless hits like Rocket Man, Your Song, and Tiny Dancer. Beyond his music, Elton has been a passionate advocate for LGBTQAI+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. After coming out as gay in the early ’90s, he used his fame to speak out against stigma and inequality. He also founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which has raised hundreds of millions for prevention, treatment, and support.

Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde was a brilliant writer and style icon known for his sharp wit and bold fashion choices that challenged Victorian norms. As an openly queer figure of his time, he helped redefine ideas about self-expression and paved the way for greater acceptance of LGBTQAI+ identities. Wilde’s influence still echoes today in both literature and fashion as a symbol of creativity and courage.

Marc Jacobs

Marc Jacobs is a renowned American fashion designer celebrated for his innovative designs and significant influence in the fashion industry. As an openly gay public figure, Jacobs has utilized his platform to advocate for LGBTQAI+ rights and inclusion. He has been actively involved in supporting various LGBTQAI+ organizations, including The Centre in New York, through campaigns such as the #PerfectPrideMovement.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox is an American actress and activist who has significantly advanced LGBTQ+ visibility in entertainment. She made history in 2014 as the first openly transgender person nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her role as Sophia Burset in Orange Is the New Black. In 2015, she became the first transgender person to win a Daytime Emmy Award as an executive producer for the documentary Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word. Beyond acting, Cox has produced and starred in several projects that highlight transgender experiences, including Disclosure (2020), which explores the portrayal of transgender individuals in media.