LGBTQIA+ Trailblazers
Notable Figures and Trailblazers
Richard Isay, M.D. (1934-2012) - Dr. Richard Isay was a pioneering psychoanalyst and psychiatrist who revolutionized the understanding of gay men's development by rejecting pathological models and advancing a progressive view within psychoanalysis. His influential books, such as Being Homosexual (1989), Becoming Gay (1997), and Commitment and Healing: Gay Men and the Need for Romantic Love (2006), along with groundbreaking scholarly publications, became foundational texts for both professionals and patients. Isay's clear, jargon-free writing and his advocacy for inclusivity and against discriminatory practices within psychoanalytic institutions earned him significant recognition, including the Distinguished Service Award from the Association of Gay and Lesbian Psychiatrists and the Hans W. Loewald Memorial Award for his contributions to psychoanalytic theory and practice. Beyond his professional achievements, Isay's personal journey and commitment to social justice deeply impacted those around him. He held leadership roles in various organizations, such as the Western New England Psychoanalytic Society and the American Psychiatric Association, and served as a professor at Weill Cornell Medical College and Columbia University. His work and advocacy have left an enduring legacy, significantly advancing mental health and influencing countless individuals, their families, and mental health practitioners.Kertzner R. In Memoriam: Richard Isay (December 1934–June 2012). Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health. 2013;17(1):127-128.
Ben Barres, M.D., Ph.D. (1954-2017) - Ben Barres, a distinguished professor of neurobiology at Stanford University, made significant contributions to the understanding of glial cells in the brain. He broke ground in identifying the crucial role of these cells in neural function and pathology. His research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dartmouth College, and Harvard University laid the foundation for his work at Stanford, where he led a laboratory dedicated to studying glial cells' impact on neural regeneration, synapse formation, and disease. Throughout his career, Barres was recognized with prestigious awards like the Searle Scholar Award and the Ralph W. Gerard Prize in Neuroscience. He shared his knowledge generously, mentoring countless young scientists and creating a vibrant lab culture that encouraged curiosity and persistence. As a transgender man, Barres leveraged his unique perspective to become a powerful advocate for equality in science. He championed gender parity and fought for the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ and minority scientists. He used his own experiences to argue against gender bias in scientific communities and worked to eliminate harassment and discrimination.
Allen NJ, Daneman R. In Memoriam: Ben Barres. Journal of Cell Biology. 2018;217(2):435-438.
Phill Wilson (1956- ) - Phill Wilson is a renowned activist and public health advocate who has dedicated his life to addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis, particularly within the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. Wilson's activism began after he and his partner were diagnosed with HIV in the early 1980s, which catalyzed his lifelong commitment to AIDS advocacy. His leadership extended to founding the Black AIDS Institute in 1999, the only national HIV/AIDS think tank focused exclusively on Black people. This organization has played a pivotal role in engaging and mobilizing Black communities and institutions to confront HIV. His advocacy efforts also led him to serve on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS and to hold various significant positions, including vice president of the National Lesbian and Gay Health Association. Wilson's work emphasizes the necessity of targeted public health strategies that consider the specific needs of the most affected communities. His personal experiences and professional endeavors have made him a critical figure in the fight against HIV/AIDS, advocating for comprehensive education, prevention, and care initiatives that address the nuances of cultural and sexual identity.
Wilson P, Villarosa L. Op-Ed: Phill Wilson at 60 and a Lifetime of Fighting for Black Lives. NBC News. Published April 23, 2016. Accessed May 24, 2024.
Admiral Rachel L. Levine, M.D. (1957- ) - Dr. Rachel Levine, born on October 28, 1957, is a politician and pediatrician who serves as the 17th Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). She made history in 2021 as the first openly transgender federal official confirmed by the U.S. Senate. Before this role, she held key public health positions in Pennsylvania, including Physician General and Secretary of Health. In these roles, she implemented public health measures such as expanding access to the anti-overdose drug Naloxone and launching the state's medical marijuana program. Levine also became the first openly transgender four-star admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. Her long medical career includes pioneering work in adolescent medicine and leading a multidisciplinary eating disorders program at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. With degrees from Harvard and Tulane, Levine brings extensive medical and public health expertise to her federal role. She is deeply committed to addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, eliminating health disparities, and protecting the rights of marginalized groups, particularly LGBTQIA+ youth.
Rich M. Rachel Levine. In: Current Biography (Bio Ref Bank); 2022.
James Makokis, M.D., M.H.S. (1981- ) - Dr. James Makokis is a Saddle Lake Cree physician from Alberta, Canada, recognized for integrating Indigenous knowledge into Western medical practice. As a leader in holistic healthcare, he incorporates traditional healing practices alongside Western medicine to serve his patients. Dr. Makokis emphasizes mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness, especially in treating marginalized communities like LGBTQIA+ and Indigenous peoples. He completed his medical training at the University of Ottawa and holds a Master of Health Science degree in Community Health and Epidemiology. His work includes advocating for transgender rights and delivering culturally relevant care to Indigenous patients. He is also known for raising awareness on Two-Spirit issues, which he addresses in his professional and advocacy work. Beyond medicine, Dr. Makokis is a respected public speaker, educator, and champion for health equity. He promotes blending Indigenous and Western perspectives to enrich medical understanding. Through this approach, he aims to challenge healthcare stereotypes and offer a more inclusive framework for wellness.
James Makokis on Indigenous ways. University of Ottawa. Published November 7, 2023. Accessed May 10, 2024.
Savage R. Walking in two worlds: Canada’s “two-spirit” doctor guiding trans teenagers. Reuters. Published January 8, 2020. Accessed May 28, 2024.
