Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Civil Rights Leader Del Martin, 87

Phyllis and Del certainly had their own individual interests and
personalities, but their life and love as a couple and their
commitment to living that life openly, with honesty and integrity, is
what millions of folks around the world will remember. The picture of
Del and Phyllis marrying 4 years ago and then again on June 16, in the
wake of our landmark victory in the California State Supreme Court, is
an image that melted hearts and opened minds. They were the face for
our fight to win the right to marry the person we love--and after
55 years of commitment to one another, who could possibly deny them
that cherished right?


Del's entire life was marked by moments of singular courage,
intelligence and insight. She was always ready to discuss--and
argue--politics, international affairs, women's issues,
social justice causes and the history of the LGBT movement. My fondest
memories were laughing and gossiping as we sat in their modest home
with the million-dollar views of San Francisco. Over these past
months, we were able to do that often and over that time it was clear
that Del's health was slipping. But her mind and wit never left.
In one of my last hospital visits Del was in pain, with doctors trying
all sorts of combinations of medication to ease her discomfort. At one
point she grimaced. "Oh, Del I am so sorry," I said.
"Not as sorry as I am," she replied with a wry smile.

In so many ways, I have lived a life filled with extraordinary gifts.
My work, my family, my friends and colleagues are all a rich and
varied quilt of enriching relationships and profound connections. I
have been mentored by women and men of enormous talent and generosity.
In all my life I have never known a person more remarkable than Del
Martin. I will miss her every day.

My pledge is to honor her unsurpassed legacy by working every day to
keep alive her vision for full equality and justice for all of us.
Now, more than ever, I am committed to waking up on November 5 with
Prop 8 defeated with a brighter future for every LGBT person assured.
Now I am doing it for Del and her beloved widow, Phyllis. I hope you
will, too.


We now have a fierce and mighty angel on our side. Please hold Phyllis
in your hearts and take just a moment to be grateful that our world
and community knew Del Martin.

With a heavy heart,

Kate


Click here to read Del Martin's obituary (pdf)
http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=8TuOs_XgwCRql0j-6ggN5Q..

Click here to read NCLR's press release 08.27.08
http://www.nclrights.org/site/R?i=pYGwmsaW_6yffy90dyTPew..