Honoring Women's History Month: a look back at the remarkable career of LGBTQ+ women pioneer Gladys Bentley

In honor of Women's History Month, we're shining a special spotlight on LGBTQ+ women, past and present, who have overcome unimaginable obstacles to make a difference in the world. These women have not only shown immense courage in their own lives, but have also paved the way for those who have come after them to make the world a more inclusive and diverse place.

Gladys Bentley was one of these admirable women. With her unique style and irresistible charm, she was a shining star in Prohibition-era Harlem. Not only did Bentley catch the eye with her sparkling white tails, high top hat, and shiny shoes, she promised to steal everyone's girl with her confidence and talent on stage.

Bentley's performances were so bold and avant-garde during that era that the New York Police Department had to lock the club's doors to prevent her liberating atmosphere from spreading. Despite the pressures of censorship, Bentley remained steadfast in her sexuality, and with her music and performances laid the groundwork for later artists such as Garnell Monet and Lil Nas X. Bentley's work as a singer-songwriter, as well as a performer in her own right, was a major influence on her career, as well as on the work of other artists.

Bentley's story is one of self-discovery and perseverance on the path to her true self. From a young age, she knew exactly who she was and chose music as her escape in the face of her family's disapproval and society's rejection. Her courage and determination eventually led her to New York City, where she found a place to belong and earned a place for her talent.

Bentley scraped together income from "rent parties" in Harlem, which were one of the few legal and safe venues for lesbians at the time. Her performances not only provided flirtatious fun for members of the LGBTQ+ community, but also challenged the gender and sexual orientation norms of the time.

Bentley's story is one of courage, self-expression, and an indomitable spirit. Her life and work not only impacted her era, but also provided inspiration for the LGBTQ+ artists and activists who came after her. In honor of Women's History Month, let's honor Gladys Bentley and all the LGBTQ+ women who have overcome unimaginable obstacles in order to change the world.

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