One commonly cited example is Michael McConnell and Jack Baker, the first openly gay couple to apply for a marriage license in 1971. Openly LGBT people being visible in society affects societal attitudes toward homosexuality, bisexuality, and the transgender community on a wider level.

In areas that historically are not known for having (or being friendly to) LGBT people who do not remain closeted, a 'first' can make it easier for other openly LGBT persons to enter the field or for those who are closeted to come out. Openly LGBT people remain a demographic minority in most places. This list of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender ( LGBT) firsts by year denotes pioneering LGBT endeavors organized chronologically.

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