John Burnside, Gay Activist Inventor, Dies at 91
John Burnside, a gay rights activist and the inventor of the teleidoscope, died earlier this week at 91. Burnside was an early gay rights leader and even helped organize the first pride march. “He was not only smart and funny and bright, he was also profoundly, at his core, a gentle man and all that that implies.” For those of you who don’t know, a teleidoscope is sorta like a kaleidoscopes, except it has an open lens and you can see outside.
I was blessed to be part of the healing circle for Harry Hay, John’s Husband for 40 years.
John stands large in my memories as the love and support for Harry, who founded not only the Radical Faerie movement, but also the “one” society (magazine) in Los Angeles, and so many other groups of Gay LIBERATION. (Act-Up Queer Nation, Lesbian Avengers, HRC…..)
All citizens of the world should honor the passing of this man. He has done more to support the advancement of equality, diversity and simple enjoyment of life than … wel most of us!
John…. the name of my own husband, find the light of love that Harry has for you, and join him in the next world.
THANK YOU for spending so many years away from Harry to keep us safe, and help us to meet you “Next Time”
Love
Josh and Cody