March 18, 2025
In a bold response to what it describes as unconstitutional US government actions, the Stonewall National Museum, Archives & Library has called for a nationwide revival of ACT UP activism, expanding beyond its original HIV/AIDS focus to address broader threats to civil liberties.
Robert Kesten, President of the Fort Lauderdale-based institution, announced the initiative yesterday, drawing parallels between the government’s silence during the early AIDS crisis and what he characterizes as today’s direct threats to constitutional freedoms.
“We need to be as bold as our adversaries who do not believe we have it in us to challenge their lawlessness,” Kesten stated in the announcement. “The LGBTQ+ community knows how to activate, knows how to fight for survival and protect hard-earned equality.”
The original ACT UP (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) movement emerged in the 1980s as a direct-action group that successfully forced government action on the AIDS epidemic through provocative protests and civil disobedience. The new initiative aims to apply these tactics to current political challenges.
The museum’s call extends beyond LGBTQ+ organizations to include other civil rights groups, labour unions, religious institutions, and individuals concerned about democratic governance. It specifically advocates for street protests and economic disruption through general strikes.
“We know Silence=Death cannot be an option for people of colour, women, people with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community or any other group that is feeling the dragon’s breath on the back of their neck,” the statement reads.
Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library houses millions of pages of records and materials available to the media, drawing direct lines from US and LGBTQ+ history to today.
Those interested in joining the movement are encouraged to contact the museum directly at inquiry@stonewall-museum.org
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