“We cannot understand those arrogant people who have decided that a heterosexual lifestyle must be imposed on everyone and that they have a monopoly on morality,” she wrote. “The American way is respect for diversity with the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” – Adele Starr

Adele Starr died in her sleep Friday at Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, where she had been convalescing after surgery.  Adele was no ordinary woman,  a Brentwood mother of five overcame dismay at her son’s homosexuality to become a leading voice for gay rights and marriage equality activist until her death this weekend at the age of 90

In 1976, Starr founded the Los Angeles chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, a gay rights and acceptance organization known then as Parent FLAG, now as PFLAG.  In 1979, she spoke on the steps of the U.S. Capitol at a march for gay rights — a seminal event often credited with uniting a then-nascent movement.

Two years later, she became PFLAG’s first national president; she served in that capacity until 1986 and remained a forceful advocate for civil rights and, in later years, for the legalization of same-sex marriage and remained fighting and involved for over 40 years until the day she she passed on

Adele Starr is a true hero and LGBT Activist Leader and who we should always remember and be grateful to  She will be missed.

Rest In Peace Adele and Thank you.