AIDS: THE LOST VOICES
As the AIDS pandemic began to unfold in San Francisco, a wave of courageous gay men emerged, bravely voicing their experiences of stigma and isolation. These activists played a crucial role in raising awareness and challenging the pervasive fear and ignorance surrounding the disease. Their efforts spurred the rise of numerous organisations and charities, mobilising to provide care, support, and compassion to those affected. In an environment rife with discrimination, these individuals and groups became a beacon of hope, advocating for change and solidarity within a community that was suffering deeply yet remained resilient in its quest for justice and understanding. We look at the stories of Bobby Reynolds, Mark Wood, Phil Shippy and Joe Swartz.
REYNOLDS, Robert ‘Bobby’ Thomas was born on 25th October 1946, in San Francisco. Bobby attended the Fall Rivers High School and his school year books note he excelled at mathematics.
After leaving school, Bobby landed a job in the customer service department of Pacific Gas and Electric Co. A keen sportsman, he excelled at volleyball and met his partner, Mark Wood, around 1978 when he joined Moby Dick, the Gay Softball League team that Mark managed and coached. As Bobby began his day in the office in April 1982, he received a crushing blow when his doctor informed him that recent test results indicated he had tested positive for AIDS.
While the news was a blow, Bobby composed himself and threw himself into political AIDS activism, highlighting the stigma and the shortfalls in services being offered to a growing community that was becoming increasingly vilified and isolated.
Bobby recognised the urgent need to confront societal misconceptions and push for improved healthcare access, lobbying for policy changes that addressed both the medical and social needs of those affected. Through relentless campaigning and community engagement, Bobby sought to foster understanding and compassion, working to dismantle the barriers that perpetuated discrimination and neglect. His efforts aimed to shine a light on the harsh realities faced by many, advocating for a future where acceptance replaced fear and ignorance.
Bobby worked for various organisations throughout his career, contributing significantly to each. Notably, he served as a member of the executive board of The Shanti Project, an organisation based in San Francisco that continues to provide essential services for individuals living with HIV.
Their home on Isis Street, San Francisco
Mark Richard Wood was born on 17th April 1947 and sadly passed away aged 39 from AIDS-related complications on 31st October 1986 at home with his partner, Bobby Reynolds.
Mark Wood & Bobby in their home 1986
Bobby & Mark together - AIDS Quilt (USA)
Bobby & Mark San Francisco Gay Softball League quilt panel
SHIPPY, Philip ‘Phil’ Eugene was born on 1st April 1985, in Weiser, Idaho to parents Samuel Shippy and Enid Brown.
Phil shared that his parents were very religious and held strong beliefs that clashed with his homosexuality. This disapproval likely contributed to his decision to leave home and relocate to Elko, Nevada, where he found a sense of acceptance.
In Elko, Phil lived with his partner, working as a distributor while caring for Harper Lease’s horses in preparation for shows. Diagnosed with AIDS in 1983, Phil faced the realities of his illness with resilience until he sadly passed away in 1984 at the age of 28. His body was returned to Idaho, where he was laid to rest, leaving his partner and friends to honour his memory with a panel dedicated to him for the AIDS Quilt.
Phil spoke about his AIDS diagnosis in 1983 for a documentary titled ‘Time for Change’ which didnt air until 1986.
AIDS Quilt - Dedicated to Phil
SWARTZ, Joseph ‘Joe’ Winston was born on 14th June 1943 in Alliance, Ohio to parents Fred Swartz and Katherine Oswald.
Born and raised in Ohio Joe attended Alliance High School and was an accomplished pianist with a keen interest in classical music.
After learning of his AIDS diagnosis, Joe lost his job at AT&T, a development that plunged him into a profound isolation and led him to contemplate taking his own life. In the midst of this darkness, a chance letter inviting him to an AIDS retreat sparked a transformative shift within him. Inspired by the warmth and support he found there, Joe resolved to give back to the community that had embraced him. He became a member of the board of the San Francisco AIDS Fund, taking on the vital responsibility of distributing funds to those in need, thereby transforming his struggle into a force for good.
Through meeting Danny at the Shanti Project, who was a former roommate of Bill, the three decided to give up their individual homes in favour of a shared property that could accommodate them all. This decision was driven by the desire to establish a support circle for Joe, who had been grappling with the isolation that came from living alone. By coming together, they aimed to provide a nurturing environment where Joe could feel connected and supported, fostering a sense of community that had been missing in his life.
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Given Joe’s commitment to raising awareness around AIDS, he bravely spoke out to combat the fear and hysteria surrounding the disease. In a follow-up interview with the Oakland Tribune, he expressed contentment with his living arrangements, finding solace in music as he enjoyed playing on his baby grand and Steinway pianos. Despite the challenges he faced, Joe radiated a sense of peace and purpose through his music.
Tragically, Joe passed away on 11th June 1985 in San Francisco, where he was laid to rest, leaving behind a legacy of courage and creativity for those who would follow in his footsteps. His unwavering determination served as an inspiration to many, fostering a sense of community and compassion that continued to resonate long after his departure.
A Time of Change: Confronting AIDS
ft. Bobby Reynolds, Phil Shippy & Joe Swartz.
Filmed 1983 - Aired 1986
Those People: AIDS in the Public
ft. Bobby Reynolds & his Sister
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