Jonathan D. Lewis, a prominent activist and philanthropist dedicated to LGBTQ+ causes, passed away on July 5 at his residence in Florida after a courageous battle with CNS lymphoma. He was 64. Throughout his life, Lewis played a pivotal role in various initiatives, championing marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and youth engagement.
A Trailblazer in the Pursuit of Marriage Equality
Lewis’s commitment to marriage equality was evident through his involvement with the American Foundation for Equal Rights (AFER). This organization united attorneys Ted Olson and David Boies to challenge California’s Proposition 8, which aimed to revoke marriage equality in the state. The tenacious efforts of AFER resulted in the federal court striking down Prop. 8, a decision subsequently affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2013.
Empowering LGBTQ+ Activism and Youth Engagement
Lewis demonstrated unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights through his funding of GetEQUAL, a direct-action group that tirelessly advocated for President Barack Obama to address important issues like marriage equality and the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell.” The group’s innovative tactics, including White House fence chaining and public event disruptions, brought these concerns to the forefront and contributed to the ultimate repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” in 2010.
Additionally, Lewis co-founded the Young Voter Alliance under the Young Democrats of America. The initiative used music, featuring a new recording of “Wake Up Everybody” produced by Lewis and influential figures like Russell Simmons and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, to encourage youth voter turnout. This endeavor notably resulted in the highest youth voter participation since 1972 during the 2004 elections.
A Philanthropic Legacy in LGBTQ+ Empowerment
Beyond his activism, Lewis was the driving force behind the Jonathan D + Mark C. Lewis Foundation, dedicated to various projects benefiting LGBTQ+ and Appalachian youth. Among these initiatives is Farms Work Wonders, an experimental pilot project launched in 2016, offering employment, skills training, and educational support to Appalachian youth. The project encompasses an organic farm, a market, a bakery, a glass-blowing studio, and a restaurant, which is set to open in August.
Honoring a Visionary Legacy
Jonathan D. Lewis’s impact on the LGBTQ+ community and progressive causes reverberates through the words of his husband, Mark C. Lewis, who will now lead the foundation’s board. Lewis’s tenacity, courage, and dedication will be fondly remembered as his legacy lives on through the ongoing work of the foundation.
As individuals across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond mourn the loss of this visionary activist, Lewis’s profound contributions to equality, justice, and empowerment will continue to inspire generations to come.