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The Political Pioneer — First openly gay candidate for public office in the U.S. and founder of the Imperial Court System.

Decades before “coming out” was part of the national lexicon, José Sarria stood onstage at San Francisco’s Black Cat Café, unapologetically himself—and unapologetically political. His courage made him the first openly gay candidate for public office in the U.S., laying the groundwork for queer political power nationwide.

Biggest Wins:

• Posthumously honored with José Sarria Court in the Castro.
• First openly gay candidate for public office in the U.S. (SF Board of Supervisors, 1961).
  
• Founded the Imperial Court System, now one of the largest LGBTQ+ charitable organizations globally.
  
• Performed at the historic Black Cat Café as “The Nightingale of Montgomery Street.”
  
• Advocated for police reform and anti-harassment measures for LGBTQ+ people in SF.
  

Why She Matters:

Sarria shattered political invisibility for queer people and proved that visibility itself is a form of power.

Ways to Connect:

• Learn more through the Jose Sarria Foundation
• Visit José Sarria Court in SF’s Castro District.