KEN BAKER - IN LOVING MEMORY

Montgomery lost a great leader with the passing of Ken Baker on November 11, 2007. This was a tragic and unexpected loss, not only for Ken’s family and loving partner, but for everyone who is in any way involved in the movement for equality, peace, and social justice.

Under Ken’s leadership, Equality Alabama grew and moved its headquarters to a beautifully renovated house that was warm and welcoming, just as he was. His was a life of service and outreach. Ken recognized the importance of coalition-building, and he was an ally and friend to so many of us. He was a courageous activist who did not hesitate to speak out.

The void he has left is immense; it cannot and will not be filled. But we can honor him and what he meant to us by coming together and working even harder to achieve that “just society” he envisioned.

We will remember Ken’s smile and his quiet demeanor and his willingness to always support a just cause. We will remember his efforts to educate and to bring this community together with potluck suppers and movie nights. We will remember how, in this culture of hate in which we are now living, we never heard him speak with hatred about anyone. And, we will remember him at protests and rallies, quietly holding a large American flag -- a gentle reminder to all, what patriotism really means, and what that flag is supposed to represent: justice for all! Ken touched our lives, and we will remember.

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