Jennings become one of the first people to openly acknowledge in a court of law his homosexuality, while at the same time pleading innocent of the charges. This was the first time an American court was forced to make a distinction between homosexual behavior and illegal behavior. Ultimately, the jury was deadlocked and all charges were dropped, however the court issued a media blackout, so no newspapers, magazines, or radios would publicize the win. This quiet, but massive, win showed membership growth in the Mattachine Society by the thousands in preceding weeks. Unfortunately, the group weakened by the mid 50's, but is credited with the formation of roughly fifty other homophile groups in coming decades. (Mattachine Society) Another important organization that popped up, in part thanks to the Mattachine Society, was the Metropolitan Community Church, founded in 1968 by Baptist Reverend Troy Perry. This was the only mainstream church that allowed homosexuals as leaders or members, in a time where most churches would not even allow membership, much less leadership. Even today, the Metropolitan Community Church is the largest religious organizations for homosexuals in the country. (Ford).
Even with all the steps taken to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of American homosexuals, their lives were still enshrouded in persecution. Employment discrimination and physical violence were the two most threatening forms of oppressions they faced daily. However, most gays and lesbians felt the worst form of maltreatment came through gay bashing, especially when done by public officials. Unending detainments, physical beatings, rapes and sexual assaults were quite prevalent, often committed inside the police precinct. This was especially true for lesbians and transgendered people. The best case scenario for many people was the police would simply turn a blind eye to these atrocities when committed by other civilians.
