The Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions by Larry Mitchell

The Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions, by Larry Mitchell, explores the story of the queer liberation movement in 1970s San Francisco. Following the Stonewall riots, a group of radicals known as the Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions (FFBR) were determined to push for the advancement of rights for LGBT people. The book tells their story, from their formation to their eventual dissolution in the early 1980s.

Mitchell begins by laying out the context of the LGBT rights movement of the 1960s and 70s. He recounts the events leading up to the uprising at Stonewall, the coming together of activist groups such as the Mattachine Society and the Daughters of Bilitis, and the beginnings of the gay liberation movement. He then explains the role of the FFBR in that movement and how the organization arose out of creative approaches to the oppression of the LGBT community.

The FFBR took progressive stances on a wide array of issues. They strongly advocated for the rights and recognition of transgender individuals, objecting to the existing gender binary of male and female. They were also vocal opponents of racism, sexism, ageism, and classism. In addition, the FFBR championed free expression through art, literature, and other forms of entertainment.

The book then delves into how the FFBR achieved some of their goals. Mitchell explains their involvement in the Democratic National Convention protests, their confrontation of Anita Bryant’s hatemongering campaign, and the Gay Rights Platform which the organization helped draft. He also highlights the FFBR’s efforts in education, with workshops and classes designed to educate others, and the formation of a Gay Press Collective which was an event promotion network that spread the message of liberation.

Mitchell additionally highlights the importance of the FFBR’s relationships, with both each other and other progressive groups working for social justice. Mitchell also recounts their significant successes, as well as their eventual dissolution due to ideological divisions. He uses the FFBR to illustrate the inherent tensions between revolution and reform efforts and the need for the movement to constantly redefine itself in response to changing times.

Overall, The Faggots and Their Friends Between Revolutions is an important addition to queer history and its study. Mitchell’s thorough and nuanced research brings to light the far-reaching legacy of the FFBR and their efforts for LGBT liberation. The book is an essential read for those interested in LGBT history, as it provides an in-depth look at a key moment in the movement’s struggle for equality.