Civil rights pioneer ABilly S. Jones-Hennin, a trailblazer who co-founded the first national Black LGBTQ+ organization in the U.S., passed away on January 19 at the age of 81. His husband and partner of 45 years, Christopher Hennin, revealed that his death was a result of complications from Parkinson’s disease and advanced-stage spinal stenosis[^1^].
A Legacy of Activism and Inclusivity
Born in St. Johns, Antigua, in 1942, Jones-Hennin began his journey towards activism when he was adopted at the age of three by a family of civil rights activists. Growing up in Virginia, he became actively involved in the Black civil rights movement during the 1950s and ’60s. Jones-Hennin participated in sit-ins at lunch counters and even attended the historic 1967 March on Washington, experiences that would shape his later contributions[^2^].
In 1977, Jones-Hennin moved to Washington, D.C., where he not only found true love in Christopher Hennin but also began reshaping LGBTQ+ organizing in the area. His involvement with the Gay Activists Alliance prompted him to question the lack of African-American representation in the group. In response, he founded the D.C. Coalition of Black Gays in April 1978. This organization later joined forces with activists Darlene Garner and Delores P. Berry to form the National Coalition of Black Gays (NCBG), the first national advocacy group for Black LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States[^3^].
Championing Diversity and Equality
NCBG played a vital role in organizing the inaugural March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in October 1979, with Jones-Hennin taking on the role of logistics coordinator. This historic event, which had been championed by the late activist Harvey Milk, brought together thousands of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, and set the stage for future advocacy efforts[^4^].
Simultaneously, Jones-Hennin played a pivotal role in planning the first-ever National Conference of Third World Lesbians and Gays, held at Howard University. This groundbreaking conference featured prominent Black, Asian, and Latinx activists, including keynote speaker Audre Lorde. It served as an inspiration for the Lambda Student Alliance, the first LGBTQ+ student organization at a historically Black college or university[^5^].
Honoring Jones-Hennin’s Legacy
ABilly Jones-Hennin dedicated his life to promoting inclusivity, equality, and social justice. His strategic organizing skills, tireless dedication, and ability to bring diverse groups together were instrumental in advancing the cause of LGBTQ+ rights. Jones-Hennin’s influence reached beyond the LGBTQ+ community, leaving an indelible mark on the broader civil rights movement in the United States.
“He strategized, he organized, and he got people who didn’t otherwise want to be in the same room together to be in the same room, knowing that was the only way we would reach liberation,” said Victoria Kirby York, director of public policy and programs at the National Black Justice Coalition[^6^].
ABilly Jones-Hennin’s passing is a moment for us to reflect on his contributions and the trail he blazed for equality and justice. As we honor his memory, let us carry forward his legacy by continuing to fight for a world where everyone is embraced and celebrated for who they are.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of ABilly Jones-Hennin’s death?
A: ABilly Jones-Hennin passed away due to complications from Parkinson’s disease and advanced-stage spinal stenosis[^1^].
Q: What was ABilly Jones-Hennin’s role in LGBTQ+ advocacy?
A: ABilly Jones-Hennin co-founded the National Coalition of Black Gays, the first national advocacy group for Black LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States. He also played a crucial role in organizing the first March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights[^3^][^4^].
If you have more questions or want to learn more about ABilly Jones-Hennin and other remarkable individuals, visit Celebrity Deaths 2024 for further information.
Conclusion
ABilly Jones-Hennin’s life and work will forever be remembered as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those fighting for equality and justice. He broke barriers, united communities, and left an enduring legacy that will continue to shape our society. As we celebrate his life, let us embrace his spirit of inclusivity and carry it forward as we strive to create a world where everyone is embraced, respected, and celebrated, regardless of their race, gender, or sexual orientation.
Rest in power, ABilly Jones-Hennin.
[^1^]: Washington Blade – Obituary: ABilly Jones-Hennin
[^2^]: The Washington Post – ABilly Jones-Hennin Obituary
[^3^]: Metro Weekly – Past and Present
[^4^]: National Museum of African American History and Culture – March on Washington Collection
[^5^]: Socialism.com – History Made: First Lesbians/Gays of Color Conference
[^6^]: National Black Justice Coalition – Twitter Statement
