Bob Hattoy's speech at the 1992 DNC Convention

From Democrats.org ....
Over the weekend, noted activist Bob Hattoy, who in addition to being a tireless advocate for a number of causes, became the first openly gay person with HIV to speak to a national audience when he gave a primetime address to the 1992 Democratic National Convention, passed away.

Governor Dean:

"This weekend, America lost a true champion for justice. Aside from being a fierce advocate on causes ranging from LGBT rights and HIV issues, to civil liberties and the environment, Bob Hattoy was a wonderfully charming man with a tremendous sense of humor. Most of all, Bob was a friend and mentor to so many. Through Bob's life and service to our country, we are all reminded of the need to do more to encourage greater participation of all Americans, including gays and lesbians, in our political process. Bob will be missed. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and loved ones."

I urge all of you to listen to his speech and to not stop caring about HIV/AIDS and to not stop caring about ensuring that all LGBTQI people, not just queer Americans, can lead, healthy and happy lives.

Let's not keep these issues under the rug. Health issues to the LGBTQI community are as important as ever these days. With the increasing rates of drug and alcohol abuse in the LGBTQI community, it is important we educate others about the increasing risks of the abuse of these substances and offer alternatives to the community besides clubbing and bar hopping (i.e.-volunteering and giving a damn about each other, actually establishing community). With the increasing rates of STDs and HIV/AIDS amongst my peers, not just the queer community, it is important we bring forth awareness of how to protect ourselves and to exact change in the blindless policies of abstinence only and abstinence plus sex education in our K-12 schools.