Hugh Hefner publicly supported LGBTQ rights long before it was widely accepted in America. In the 1950s, Playboy published stories and editorials advocating for gay rights and decriminalization of homosexuality. Hefner saw the fight for LGBTQ equality as a basic civil rights issue and used his platform to challenge anti-gay laws and promote acceptance. Over the years, Playboy continued to highlight LGBTQ topics and voices, helping to influence public attitudes toward equality.