But We Loved An Oral History of the AIDS Crisis
Feb 12, 2025
Peter Staley, a legendary AIDS activist and co-founder of ACT UP, shares his powerful insights on the AIDS crisis. He discusses the historical impact on the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting both struggles and resilience. Staley reflects on personal encounters with fear and despair, emphasizing emotional tolls faced by loved ones. The conversation also touches on the stigma during the early years and the relentless activism that demanded change. As the discussion weaves through joy and tragedy, it offers a poignant reminder of hope amid loss and the lasting legacy of the crisis.
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The Gay Liberation Party Era
- The 1970s post-Stonewall era brought liberation and joy as gay people could celebrate openly for the first time.
- Bathhouses served as popular social and sexual venues akin to early dating apps for the community.
AIDS Emerges in Bars
- Early signs of AIDS appeared in bars with symptoms like weight loss, rashes, and purple lesions.
- Many friends suddenly vanished, and the disease took hold quickly in gay communities.
Peter Staley's Diagnosis
- Peter Staley learned of his HIV diagnosis during a trip and broke down in tears, overwhelmed by fear.
- The diagnosis felt like a genetic sentence, marking a devastating change in life outlook.