Martin was born in New York, NY. As a teenager in the 1960s, he came out and found his way to Christopher Street in Greenwich Village. He was involved in the post Mattachine Society gay rights movements that sought to push gay activism beyond its traditional approach and embrace the diversity in our community by challenging racism, sexism and transphobia in the community.
Following an incredible Western Tour (May 2022), Martin will be coming back to Canada. He will be in Alberta in 18-22 February, 2023, and Eastern Canada in April/May 2023.
He is available to speak at your school or organization for FREE. If you are interested in booking him, please click here to request him via ourSpeakers’ Bureau.
He was a regular of the Stonwall Inn, and on June 28, 1969, he was a participant in the Stonewall Riots (also known as the Stonewall Uprising). The Stonewall Uprising were a series of spontaneous, violent demonstrations by members of the gay (LGBT) community against a police raid that began in the early morning hours. They are widely considered to constitute the most important event leading to the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for LGBT rights in the United States.
Following the Uprising, Martin continued to participate in activism, completed a degree at Hunter College and opened a restaurant in The East Village. He continues to share his stories and keep queer and trans history alive.
Topics:
Stonewall Riots
history
human rights
storytelling
Fee: US Embassy is sponsoring Martin to come to Canada in February 2023 and April 2023. Martin is happy to accept an honorarium for non-profit events ($500-2500). His regular fee varies between $3000-7000.
