Pioneering lesbian & civil rights activist Phyllis Lyon has died at age 95. Lyons & her wife Del Martin who passed in 2008 cofounded the Daughters of Bilitis (DOB) in San Francisco in 1955 becoming the first social & political organization for lesbians in the United States. They both acted as president & editor of The Ladder until 1963 & remained involved in the DOB until joining the National Organization for Women (NOW) as the first lesbian couple to do so. Kate Kendell who was mentored by Lyon & former National Center for Lesbian Rights Executive Director stated, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that Phyllis Lyon has left this life. She died peacefully this morning at 95 of natural causes. She & Del are dancing again. I will miss her so much.”
Rea Carey Executive Director of the National LGBTQ Task Force added, “I join so many others in mourning the passing of Phyllis Lyon. The saying that we stand on the shoulders of giants, is never more true when talking about being an activist & learning from Phyllis & Del who founded the first lesbian organization in 1955, Daughters of Bilitis. Two of the most amazing women I've ever had the honor to meet.” Ken Henderson Executive Director of Richmond/Ermet AID Foundation added, “R.I.P. Phyllis Lyon, a pioneer in the fight for equality & founder of Lyon-Martin Health Services. You made the most of your 95 years & served the LGBTQ community well. May the angels welcome & celebrate you.” LGBTQ Iconic Activist Cleve Jones concluded, “I'm very sad to learn of the death this morning of Phyllis Lyon. I met Phyllis & Del in 1972 & it changed my life. Two of the most remarkable people I've ever known.” WATCH VIDEO
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