AIDS Crusader ‘Fighting for All’
An article in the May 15 issue of the Long Beach Section inaccurately describes me as a participant in the City Council action of May 13 with regards to Club Sylvia.
The article describes me as a “gay activist.” The dictionary definition of “gay activist” says: “an individual working at state and local levels to repeal discriminatory legislation--and to win adoption of laws affirming full right regardless of an individual’s sexual preference.”
This would appear to mean that my commitment to the fight against AIDS is merely a “personal sexual preference issue.” My crusade against AIDS and its effects on those afflicted is a battle to win rights for all: gay, bisexual or straight, and to provide relief through fund-raising for Project AHEAD, a Long Beach support and assistance nonprofit organization, serving all of the residents of Long Beach.
The article also implies that I am heading a recall movement of Councilman Warren Harwood, based solely on Mr. Harwood being a “homophobic autocrat” and his views on sexual preference.
While I have in the past called Mr. Harwood a “homophobic autocrat,” I have come to believe that the title he best lays claim to is “czar.” The recall is based on Mr. Harwood’s inability to work with other members of the City Council and his unwillingness to listen to resident concerns.
--ROB CHAPPLE
Long Beach
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