Gay History Month: Ruth Ellis
Ruth Ellis is regarded by many as “America’s Oldest Lesbian.”
She was an African-American woman who came out as a lesbian in 1915 before graduating from Springfield High School in Illinois.
Ruth Ellis met her partner Ceceline “Babe” Franklin in the early 1920s and moved with her to Detroit, Mich. in 1937.
Their home became the gay spot for the black community of Detroit, because it was the central location for gay and lesbian parties as well as a refuge for those African-American gays and lesbians.
She became a LGBT rights activist and public speaker, advocating lesbian and gay rights throughout her life.
In 1999, the year of Ellis’ 100th birthday, the documentary Living with Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100 began its screenings nationwide.
Ellis lived to 101 years old, experiencing a century of the fight for LGBT rights. Her ordinary life continues to be an inspiration to many people.
