Sadly a pioneer of the GLBT movement is no longer with us. Del Martin, known world wide for her courage in leading the way for gays and lesbians has died at the age of 87.
Her last great political act was the push for marriage equality in the state of California. Because of her tenacity she was able to perform one last public political act by marrying her partner of 55 years, Phyllis Lyon on June 16, 2008.
"Ever since I met Del 55 years ago, I could never imagine a day would come when she wouldn't be by my side," Lyon, 83, said in a statement Wednesday. "I also never imagined there would be a day that we would actually be able to get married.
"I am devastated, but I take some solace in knowing we were able to enjoy the ultimate rite of love and commitment before she passed," Lyon said.
This is a sad day for the GLBT community. I would life to offer my thanks for all the hard work Del did in helping us enjoy the freedom we have to be open with who we are. I can only hope that I can see her in the next life to thank her personally. Good night Del. Sleep well and one day we will live in world worthy of all the work you did.
