Wisteria Program

Dora Richter’s story is an important part of trans healthcare history. As one of the earliest known people to undergo gender-affirming surgery, her life reflects both the possibilities and barriers of trans-affirming care in the 20th century. 🏳️‍⚧️

August is Transgender History Month! 🏳️‍⚧️
Throughout this month, Wisteria Program is exploring key moments in trans healthcare history—from early gender-affirming care to landmark changes that continue to expand access to affirming, compassionate treatment.

55 years ago, LGBTQ+ activists gathered in Philadelphia for the Annual Reminder demonstrations, calling attention to the discrimination and inequality faced by LGBTQ+ people.
Held each July 4 from 1965–1969, these demonstrations were among the earliest organized LGBTQ+ rights protests in the country. Their legacy helped pave the way for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
At Wisteria, we honor those who stood up, spoke out, and reminded the world that LGBTQ+ people deserve dignity, safety, and equality. 🏳️‍🌈

Author, educator, and cultural critic bell hooks challenged us to think deeply about love, community, and care. Her work explored how systems of oppression affect our lives while reminding us that empathy, education, and collective action can create meaningful change.
For many LGBTQ+ people, her writing continues to offer encouragement to build communities rooted in compassion and mutual support.

Today, 55 years ago, members of the LGBTQ+ community stood together during the Black Nite Uprising in Milwaukee—an event that remains an important part of LGBTQ+ history. Long before many of the milestones we recognize today, people pushed back against discrimination and violence with courage and resilience.
The Black Nite Uprising reminds us that progress is built on the strength of those who came before us and the communities that continue to advocate for safety, dignity, and belonging for everyone.

Sometimes self love means putting your phone down. Your mental health matters. The world will still be there when you come back—but you deserve moments of rest, too.

International Overdose Awareness Month begins today.

Within LGBTQ+ communities, stigma, isolation, and barriers to affirming healthcare can increase risk of overdose. This month, we honor the memories of those we've lost while continuing to advocate for compassionate, inclusive care and support.