Out With Dr. Bill – Remembering David Mixner, A Beacon of LGBTQ+ Activism

David Mixner, Diane Abbitt, and Chris Hershey

Reflecting on the past week, thoughts of spending time with LGBTQ+ icon David Mixner weigh heavily on my heart.

On a recent Saturday afternoon in his Theater District apartment, we caught up on a whole host of topics, shared laughter and stories, and simply were present. David was candid with me about the seriousness of his condition, making our time together a poignant farewell, allowing us to cherish anecdotes and memories that now hold profound significance.

Despite the heaviness of the situation, there was an undeniable sense of peace in the room and an overwhelming sense of love and connection between us and between his longtime friend, Steven Guy, who was with David through his journey and in his final days.

Although I was aware of the gravity of what he was experiencing, I was naively unaware that within 48 hours his spirit would find peace, and our community would lose such a fierce advocate for gay rights. [Editor's note: David Mixner passed on March 11, 2024 at the age of 77. Read his obituary in the New York Times at this link.]

Knowing David for over two decades, it feels surreal to recall our conversations about his tireless advocacy for civil rights, anti-war movements, and LGBTQ+ rights.

From his early activism during the turbulent 1960s to his pivotal role in the fight for marriage equality, David's commitment to justice knew no bounds.

Despite our differing backgrounds, David and I always found common ground in our shared passion for equality and human rights. His relentless pursuit of justice for marginalized communities, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, deeply inspired me.

As we mourn David's passing, we also celebrate his profound impact – a lasting imprint on the lives he touched and the causes he championed.

From his groundbreaking work during the HIV/AIDS crisis to his fierce opposition to discriminatory policies like Don't Ask, Don't Tell, David's influence reverberates far beyond his physical presence.

In honoring David's memory, let us carry forward his dedication to activism and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. His life's work will forever serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

As per his final wish, let us rally behind organizations like the Ali Forney Center, which David worked closely with throughout the years. Their mission to support and protect LGBTQ+ youth from the harms of homelessness resonated deeply with him.

To ensure that David's spirit of compassion and activism endures, the Ali Forney Center has established the David Mixner Memorial Fund in support of their mission.

I can think of no better way to honor his impact than through continued activism and philanthropy. If you'd like to learn more about the fund and how you can contribute, please visit Mixner.AliForneyCenter.org.

Together, let's keep David's legacy alive and make a meaningful difference in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth!

Thank you, David, for your unwavering dedication and for shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for us all. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit lives on in the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Saddle Up for Adventure: 'Dead Outlaw' Rides into Minetta Lane Theatre

Last week, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the captivating world of "Dead Outlaw," a mesmerizing new musical staged at the intimate Minetta Lane Theatre in Greenwich Village.

This theater came back into my focus roughly five years ago when it forged a partnership with Audible, presenting innovative productions and live-recorded concerts later released as Audible Originals. (For more on Audible Theater, visit its website.)

The journey to experience this unique piece was delightfully simple: I strolled from our Chelsea apartment to the theater. Arriving early has become a habit of mine, and this time it led to a serendipitous encounter with an old friend, Brian Lipton, an entertainment and fashion journalist I hadn't seen in years.

Although we've kept in touch through social media, reconnecting in person after nearly 25 years since our initial meeting, where he provided invaluable advice and insights during my doctoral dissertation on leadership in the media industry, was a true delight.

My companion for the evening, Rex Reed, a world-renowned film and theater critic, arrived promptly, as expected.

Rex often provides a counterbalance to my own enthusiasm for the arts with his discerning eye. Together, we settled into our seats amidst a minimal, yet evocative, stage setting, anticipating an evening filled with music and storytelling.

"Dead Outlaws" exceeded my expectations. Crafted by the original creators of the Tony Award-winning "The Band's Visit," the musical wove a mischievous ghost story from a curious chapter of Old West history.

Elmer McCurdy, the luckless outlaw whose post-mortem journey proved more eventful than his life, was portrayed with humor, empathy, and a touch of the macabre.

The compact stage was impressively utilized, showcasing an ensemble that delivered the compelling score with skill and emotion, led by the charismatic bandleader Jeb Brown.

Growing up in Arizona, where rodeos, cookouts, and early lessons in horsemanship were part of my upbringing, I particularly resonated with the show's blend of historical narrative, engaging music, and moments of cowboy levity that held us spellbound.

It served as a refreshing reminder of the profound impact live theater can have in both entertaining and enlightening its audience!

Reflecting on the evening, I realized that the experience was enriched not only by the performance, but also by the company and the unexpected reunion with Brian. "Dead Outlaws" became a journey through time, evoking personal memories and celebrating our shared appreciation for the arts.

It stands as a testament to the creativity of David Yazbek, Erik Della Penna, Itamar Moses, and David Cromer, marking a memorable night at the theater filled with laughter, music, and the enchantment of storytelling.

Joining Hearts and Voices at Broadway Backwards 2024

On March 11th, I had the privilege of attending Broadway Backwards 2024 at the iconic New Amsterdam Theatre, currently graced by Disney's "Aladdin."

The event transformed this historic venue into a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ stories and music, achieving a remarkable fundraising feat of $917,651 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center in New York City.

Surpassing the previous year's total by over $152,000, this new record was made possible by the incredible support and generosity of our community and its allies.

Broadway Backwards ingeniously reimagined beloved Broadway hits to spotlight LGBTQ+ narratives, delivering an evening of unparalleled entertainment. It begged the question: What does $1 billion of love look like? The answer was palpable in the joy, tears, and overwhelming support felt throughout this year's Broadway Backwards.

Seated between two influential community leaders, I found myself among remarkable company.

To my right sat Lisa Linsky from McDermott, Will & Emery – a cherished friend, mentor, and confidant for over two decades – and our gracious host for this vital community fundraiser. To my left, Judith Kasen-Windsor, a passionate LGBTQ+ rights advocate, continued her tireless work for equality and justice in memory of her late wife, Edie Windsor. Edie Windsor's landmark case, United States v. Windsor (2013), marked a turning point for marriage equality in the U.S., overturning Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).

Jenn Colella, as the mistress of ceremonies, brought humor, warmth, and a sense of familial unity, reminiscent of Rachel Maddow's iconic presence, showcasing her talent and charisma.

A standout moment of the night was John McGinty's poignant rendition of "Listen" from the film version of "Dreamgirls." Portraying a deaf college student navigating his mother's struggle to understand his sexuality and hearing impairment, McGinty's performance, voiced by Jordan Fisher, served as a heartfelt plea for family acceptance. Daniel Marmion and Morgana Shaw, portraying McGinty's parents, added depth to the emotional storyline. As someone who learned sign language early on, I was deeply moved by the beautifully orchestrated performance.

Broadway Backwards 2024 not only celebrated the LGBTQ+ community, but also shed light on crucial issues of inclusivity and understanding, including for deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals. Its success in raising funds and awareness for significant causes, coupled with a night brimming with exceptional entertainment and emotional resonance, underscored the strength and love within our community.

This year's Broadway Backwards was a billion-dollar showcase of heart and hope, leaving an indelible mark on all who experienced it.

Save the Date: Lambda Legal in the Pines, July 27th!

The week wrapped up with a gathering of the Lambda Legal in the Pines 2024 host committee, hosted graciously by Rob Levy in his stunning New York apartment.

Stepping into his stylish home felt like entering a gallery, with each corner adorned with an exquisite collection of art spanning various styles, sizes, and mediums. It was truly breathtaking, and I couldn't help but admire the meticulous curation that went into each piece.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to our event's host, Todd Sears, as well as our co-chairs, James Dale and Andrew Mitchell-Namdar. Their efforts in bringing together such a vibrant and dedicated group of individuals to support Lambda Legal's enduring fundraiser on Fire Island are truly commendable.

And a special shoutout goes to the dedicated staff of Lambda Legal who joined us at the event, and to Michelle Riley, the newly elected board president, whose passionate words deeply resonated with me.
Michelle's reminder that our community is at a critical juncture in the fight for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and those living with HIV struck a chord.

Hearing the staggering statistics about the hundreds of anti-LGBTQ+ bills across the U.S. was disheartening, yet it fueled a renewed determination within me to do even more to support Lambda Legal as they mark their 50th year of advocacy.

As we reflect on Lambda Legal's ongoing mission to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV, I am inspired to redouble my efforts in supporting their vital work.

I'm excited to see everyone at the LL in the Pines Brunch and Pool Party on Saturday, July 27th.