Among his many accomplishments, Jonah Scott Mendelsohn, actor, singer, and writer, and graduate of Vassar College, recently adapted Paul Monette's 1988 poetry collection Love Alone: 18 Elegies for Rog, into a solo stage play in New York City. Mendelsohn's timely effort keeps Paul's work alive and gives voice back to a lost generation of the first decade of the HIV/AIDS crisis. In the Preface to the book Paul wrote, "When I began to write about AIDS during Roger's illness, I wanted a form that would move with breathless speed, so I could scream if I wanted." Mendelsohn's interpretations of Love Alone are original, profound, and moving.
We are in a time of crisis for our Queer youth, especially if they are gender nonconforming or trans-identified. The Monette-Horwitz Trust is pleased to honor and amplify the impact of Desmond Napoles, the "Drag Kid," for their willingness to be out and proud and to fight for acceptance and change. Their stage name "Desmond is Amazing" says it all: it's a way of being, a way of living, and an assertion. Desmond has written a children's book and launched a clothing line to exemplify self-expression beyond the gender binary. We celebrate Desmond's bravery — and fabulousness. This kind of courage embodies the mission of the Monette-Horwitz Trust: to fight homophobia, transphobia, and the marginalization of Queer folks every way we can. Please join us in congratulating Desmond as a 2023 Monette-Horwitz Trust honoree — we hope you continue this great work!
Check back on the following dates to see additional awards:
Feb. 24
March 10
March 24