History on Film: Bob Hattoy Talks HIV/AIDS At 1992 Democratic Convention

By David Mixner -

As people got arrested in New York City this week over HIV/AIDS funding issues, it is important to remember the pioneers who have fought the good battle. One of the most historic moments in LGBT history was when environmental and HIV/AIDS activist Bob Hattoy spoke to the 1992 Democratic Convention as an openly gay man with AIDS. The first openly LGBT person ever to speak to a political convention was Jim Foster of San Francisco who spoke at the 1972 Democratic Convention in Miami.
The 1992 Democratic Convention capped off what was known in many political circles as the 'year of the gay.' That was the year that hundreds of us got elected delegates, were extremely visible at the Convention and had speakers. At that Convention, Bill Clinton actually said the word 'gay' in his acceptance speech and it set off a roar throughout the crowd. How far we have come since then. Listen to Bob's powerful speech and feel a sense of pride.



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