Book excerpt: LGBT+ History Is American History In 2014, Zaylore Stout took a drive across the country. State line after state line, he found himself detouring to landmarks of the LGBT+ heroes and history in each new place. And so, like a travel guide through the LGBT+ past and present, Our Gay History in Fifty States was born. Encompassing all fifty states as well as Washington, DC, and island territories, Our Gay History in Fifty States documents the highs and lows of American LGBT+ history. In its pages, you'll learn about LGBT+ presidents and Two-Spirit warriors, the inclusive progression of the gay rights movement, iconic orange juice boycotts, and the true origin of vogue dancing. From the childhood homes of historical figures to the safe spaces of grassroots organizations, this book is filled with destinations for those on their own local or cross-country tours of the past. Sometimes, seeing yourself in history is all you need to validate your battle for the future. While we continue pushing toward a more inclusive country, the stories of Our Gay History in Fifty States remind us that LGBT+ history is-and will always be-American history. AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY Zaylore Stout is an attorney, community organizer, and an internationally published author. Originally from Southern California, he received his BA in International Business Management from California State University-Fullerton. He's a graduate of the University of St. Thomas School of Law, where he was elected student government president. Zaylore founded his own law firm, Zaylore Stout & Associates (ZSA), with locations in Minnesota and California. Zaylore Stout & Associates was an inaugural recipient of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal Business of Pride Award in 2018. Zaylore's advocacy outside of the courtroom has also been noticeable; he led the charge for the passage of a gender inclusion policy in the St. Louis Park school district and the implementation of ranked-choice voting in St. Louis Park. This made St. Louis Park the only suburb in Minnesota to pass these initiatives. AUTHOR HOME: St. Louis Park, MN