Del Martin (right) with her wife, Phyllis Lyon
Sad news: LGBT rights activist Del Martin has died.
Martin, who married her longtime partner Phyllis Lyon on the first day same-sex marriage was legal in California, co-founded (with Lyon) the first national lesbian rights organization, the Daughters of Bilitis in 1955.
Lyon released the following statement on Martin's death: "I am so lucky to have known her, loved her and been her partner in all things. 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." (Emphasis mine)
This is incredibly sad, but what an amazing woman - and an amazing life!
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There love story is so beautiful. With all Del has done in her life, she has been a gift to women and men everywhere.
she will be greatly missed. as a queer woman i owe her a great amount of debt.
Thank you for everything you did for humanity, Del. I only wish our victory could have come sooner. But I know you and Phyllis were married in the most important of all way for oh those many years.
Your strength and courage will be with us always.
Thank you, Del, for standing up for us. Both Del and Phyllis are absolutely inspiring, both as people and as activists.
Their wedding photos should be on every poster, pamphlet and campaign ad pushing for the legalization of same sex marriage. How could anyone look at something so moving and not question their own hatred?