Inferno in the French Quarter

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Set against the backdrop of 1973 Gay Pride Day, this account delves into the tragic arson of a gay bar in the French Quarter, resulting in the loss of thirty-two lives, including members of the Metropolitan Community Church. The narrative highlights the personal stories of victims and their families, showcasing the era's pervasive homophobia and the societal challenges they faced, such as families rejecting the deceased and churches refusing burial. Johnny Townsend's extensive research and interviews bring to light this pivotal yet overlooked moment in LGBTQ+ history, now updated for its 50th anniversary.