VI logo [[link removed]]
John,
It is with deep sadness that I share this news with you: the trailblazing LGBTQ public servant Jim Hormel passed away last night. Jim is best know for being the first out LGBTQ ambassador in U.S. history, but he was also a strong philanthropic supporter of LGBTQ causes, including LGBTQ Victory Institute.
When President Clinton nominated Jim to be ambassador to Luxembourg in 1997, anti-LGBTQ U.S. senators worked to block a confirmation vote because of his sexual orientation. Senators called homosexuality “a sin.” The Traditional Values Coalition and Family Research Council attempted to characterize him as “immoral” and anti-religion. The Republican Majority Leader Trent Lott’s refusal to call a confirmation vote led to President Clinton’s recess appointment of Jim in May 1999.
Yet Jim’s perseverance and courage during this hateful episode helped jumpstart a new era where LGBTQ public servants recognized they could serve their country and be out and proud about who they are. His passing is a loss for our movement and our country.
Just this past May, we inducted Jim into the LGBTQ Victory Hall of Fame for his contributions to advancing LGBTQ equality through public service. In an interview for the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, he said: “If you don’t come out, they won’t know who you are. Coming out is the most important single step that an LGBTQ person can take today.” You can watch it here [[link removed]] .
Jim lived by those words. From founding an LGBTQ history section at the San Francisco Public library to organizing resources for HIV/AIDs organizations to investing in LGBTQ Victory Institute’s leadership efforts, Jim was a pioneer. His work ensured that the long arc of history bent further towards justice. We're grateful to follow in his footsteps and continue his work to achieve LGBTQ equality.
Our hearts go out to his family and friends. But Jim will always be remembered.
In solidarity,
Mayor Annise Parker [[link removed]]
-Annise
LGBTQ Victory Institute is a tax-exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN 52-1835268.
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