Jewel Thais-Williams, the owner of the pioneering Los Angeles nightclub Catch One and notable HIV/AIDS activist, passed away at the age of 86. Her nightclub became a safe haven for Queer People of Colour in LA after its opening in 1973. Thais-Williams faced personal struggles regarding her sexuality but transformed nightlife and community health, advocating for acceptance and safety. Born in 1939 and raised in San Diego, she co-founded the Minority AIDS Project and established Rue's House with her wife for providing support services and medical treatment.
"With heavy hearts, we honour the life of Jewel Thais-Williams. A visionary, activist, healer and mother to many, her legacy transcends nightlife, reverberating through community health, advocacy and the fight for acceptance and safety."
"Thais-Williams opened Catch One in 1973 after being shunned by other queer venues. It became a safe haven for Queer People of Colour (QPOC) in LA, who faced similar discrimination at predominantly white gay clubs."
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