GLAD is deeply saddened by the loss of a friend, former plaintiff, and champion for equality, Herbert Burtis. Herb joined the fight against the Defense of Marriage Act when he was denied Social Security survivor benefits after the death of his spouse John. The generous and powerful way Herb shared the story of his and John’s six decades together helped pave the way for the dismantling of DOMA and for the full and equal respect for our community’s relationships and marriages.

Our hearts are with Herb’s surviving partner, David, and his family and friends, as we remember him with love and gratitude for all he shared.

 

Watch Herbert Burtis speaking at GLAD’s 2012 Spirit of Justice Award Dinner:

YouTube video