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Lesbian Rights Pioneer Dies

87-year-old activist Del Martin one of first to wed

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 28, 2008 1:59 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Veteran lesbian rights pioneer Del Martin has died in San Francisco at age 87. Martin, founder of one of the first gay rights organizations, Daughters of Bilitis, had been in declining health for years, reports the San Francisco Chronicle. She and her partner were among the first same sex couples in California to marry.

"I am devastated, but take some solace in knowing we were able to enjoy the ultimate rite of love and commitment before she passed," said her partner. "Ever since I met Del 55 years ago, I could never imagine a day would come when she wouldn't be by my side."

Del Martin, left, places a ring on the finger of her partner Phyllis Lyon during their wedding ceremony officiated by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom.
Del Martin, left, places a ring on the finger of her partner Phyllis Lyon during their wedding ceremony officiated by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom.   (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)
Del Martin, right, with partner Phyllis Lyon at home in San Francisco.
Del Martin, right, with partner Phyllis Lyon at home in San Francisco.   (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, file)
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom kisses Del Martin as Martin's partner Phyllis Lyon, looks on. Martin, a pioneering lesbian rights activist, has died. She was 87.
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom kisses Del Martin as Martin's partner Phyllis Lyon, looks on. Martin, a pioneering lesbian rights activist, has died. She was 87.   (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, Pool)
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We would never have marriage equality in California if it weren't for Del and Phyllis. They fought and triumphed in many battles, beginning when they first bought a home together in San Francisco in 1955. - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi

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Del Martin dies
San Jose Mercury News

Lesbian activist Del Martin gone
USA Today

 
Nancy Pelosi • gay rights • gay marriage • Gavin Newsom • Del Martin • Phyllis Lyon • Daughters of Bilitis • National Center for Lesbian Rights. • American Psychiatric Association

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