Have you met Sylvester?
Have You Met Sylvester?
With a voice that could reach the heavens, Sylvester James Jr. stepped onto the musical scene during the Disco era in the late 1970s and 1980s. Using his style and talents, he was an activist during the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
From humble beginnings, Sylvester learned how to sing and developed his passion for music in the church. At age 13 he left the church, as they disapproved of him being gay. He moved to San Francisco at the age 22, and it was there that his career flourished through numerous band involvement and hit songs.
At age 41, Sylvester died from complications associated with the HIV virus in 1988, after being hospitalized repeatedly. Still symbolically advocating against the spread of the virus in his death, he left all his money and royalties from his work to AIDS/HIV related charities.
Editor’s Note: Throughout the month of February, Pacer Times will help celebrate Black History Month by introducing important black activists, inventors, scientists, artists and other leaders from history. Look out for new articles like this every day this month.
