This 1985 newspaper article documents Bayard Rustin’s keynote address to the National Association of Black and White Men Together, where he spoke candidly about the challenges facing the gay rights movement. Rustin emphasizes the importance of coalition-building across communities, arguing that lasting progress depends on mutual support among all groups confronting discrimination. The article highlights his efforts to connect the legacy of the civil rights movement to the growing struggle for LGBTQ+ equality.
Educational Brief on the Strategic Framework for Equal Protection
This 1985 strategic brief finds Bayard Rustin making the case for extending New York City’s human rights protections to include sexual orientation. He argues that the proposal grants no special privileges, but simply ensures equal protection against discrimination in housing and employment. Rustin also addresses common objections to the legislation, highlighting the broad coalition of religious and civic organizations that supported the measure as a matter of fairness and civil rights.
