Paving a Legacy of Love, Action, and Concern

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Jonathan began writing in high school. In the 80s and 90s, Jonathan was part of the flourishing New York City poetry scene. He frequented cafés and participated in readings throughout the city. Although this was a prolific and creative time, it also marked the beginning of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in the city.

In the spring of 1979, Jonathan was deeply impacted by the loss of his close friend, Ralph, to a mysterious illness. Although the disease had yet to be identified and understood, they now believe Ralph passed from HIV/AIDS. This was just the beginning of a very difficult time for Jonathan and all those affected by the HIV/AIDS crisis. Jonathan recalls the confusion and pain felt by his beloved community during these years:

This death prompted Jonathan to write a poem dedicated to his late friend entitled, “Lullaby, 1979”. Years later, Jonathan made a generous bequest to God’s Love when he joined our Legacy Society. For Jonathan, being a Legacy Society member is about ensuring that his community is taken care of for years to come. In his own words:

As Jonathan has reflected on the HIV/AIDS crisis, he revisited and revised his poem, “Lullaby, 1979”. Jonathan was gracious enough to recite his poem for us in honor of his friend and all the organizations who did critical work to care for those living with HIV/AIDS.