Cleve Jones

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Cleve Jones 20191201-8675 (cropped)

Cleve Jones (born October 11, 1954) is an American AIDS and LGBT rights activist. He is known for his work with the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt and his close association with Harvey Milk, a prominent gay rights leader in San Francisco.

Early Life

Cleve Jones was born in West Lafayette, Indiana. He moved to San Francisco in the early 1970s, where he became involved in the burgeoning gay rights movement. He attended San Francisco State University.

Activism

Jones began his activism career working as an intern for Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States. After Milk's assassination in 1978, Jones continued to be a prominent figure in the fight for LGBT rights.

NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt

In 1987, Jones co-founded the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt, a massive quilt that commemorates the lives of people who have died of AIDS. The quilt has become a powerful symbol of the impact of the AIDS epidemic and has been displayed in various locations around the world.

Later Work

Jones has continued his activism into the 21st century, focusing on issues such as HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, as well as broader LGBT rights. He has worked with various organizations, including the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Human Rights Campaign.

Personal Life

Jones is openly gay and has been a vocal advocate for LGBT rights throughout his life. He has written a memoir, "When We Rise," which was later adapted into a miniseries of the same name.

Legacy

Cleve Jones is considered a pioneering figure in the LGBT rights movement and the fight against AIDS. His work has had a lasting impact on both the LGBT community and public health initiatives related to HIV/AIDS.

See Also

• Harvey Milk
• AIDS epidemic
• LGBT rights in the United States
• NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt