The Institute of Current World Affairs mourns the loss of David Mixner, a towering figure in the global fight for LGBTQ+ rights, peace and justice for whom ICWA named its current LGBTQ+ fellowship. He died in New York on March 11, ICWA trustee Fabrice Houdart said.
Mixner was no ordinary American political activist and author. “He was a beacon of hope and source of inspiration for countless people battling for equal rights,” Fabrice said. “His relentless efforts advancing LGBTQ+ rights and commitment to creating a more equitable world are unparalleled.”
Beginning during the Civil Rights Movement, Mixner’s activism spanned several decades and continents, catalyzing significant social change from his involvement in anti-war protests to advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
ICWA webinar: LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, with David Mixner, March 2023
The David Mixner LGBTQ+ Fellowship
Mixner’s efforts inspired ICWA to establish the David Mixner LGBTQ+ Fellowship with the support of its trustees and sponsors.
The fellowship is aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the global challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community, and its advances. “The Mixner Fellowship supports David Mixner’s legacy because the understanding of international societies it cultivates is critical for fostering social change,” Executive Director Gregory Feifer said.
Ahead of the fellowship’s launch in 2023, Mixner said he was humbled to have it named after him, “especially for international work because I’ve done years and years of international work and it means the world to me.”
A Legacy of Enlightenment and Advocacy
ICWA invites individuals, organizations and communities to honor Mixner’s memory by supporting the Mixner Fellowship. Contributions will help empower the next generation of leaders and thinkers to pursue his passion for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, a tribute to his enduring influence and continuation of his life’s work.
“David Mixner’s life was a journey of courage, love and relentless pursuit of equality,” Houdart said. “Through the David Mixner LGBTQ+ Fellowship, his spirit will continue to guide and enlighten future generations.”
To learn more about the David Mixner LGBTQ+ Fellowship or make a donation, please click below.
