Activist Lawyer William Dobbs photograph of David Wojnarowicz’s jacket; ‘If I die of AIDS, forget burial – drop my body on the steps of the FDA” courtesy The David Wojnarowicz Papers, The Downtown Collection, Fales Library, New York University
David Wojnarowicz went out of his way to support marginalized communities through his writing, artwork, and performances.
His activism is evident in his art as well as his participation in direct actions like benefits, readings, and protests supporting women, children, the LGBTQ+ community, IV drug users, homeless teenagers and those living with HIV. He also took to the streets of New York and Washington DC with the National Organization of Women, ACT UP and other organizations.
Though the last few years of David’s personal and professional life were dominated by the AIDS crisis and Culture Wars, David remained a powerful advocate for others.
David’s death did not end his activism. He will never create another piece of art or take a photo or write a word, but his influence as an activist grows more powerful.
Spring 1988: David tests positive for HIV.
