[1] It grew partly from earlier groups, the Society of Janus and Samois.
[2][3] Other members included Dorothy Allison, Pat Califia,[4][5] and Dossie Easton.
In the 1980s and 1990s, The Outcasts sponsored community events such as Butch Fashion Shows, the first SF Dyke Daddy contest, many dances, and even a night to “take the perverts bowling”.
By 1986 they were having newcomer orientations, had officers, bylaws and a logo as well as a newsletter, The Lunatic Fringe.
In 1986, The Outcasts joined Society of Janus and other groups in the San Francisco Pride Parade's first leather contingent.