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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 229-09
May 18, 2009

STATEMENTS OF MAYOR BLOOMBERG AND COUNCIL SPEAKER QUINN ON THE DEATH OF RODGER MCFARLANE

Statement of Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg:

"I was saddened to learn of the death of Rodger McFarlane, who helped lead several groups that fight for equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered Americans and who tirelessly promoted HIV-AIDS treatment and education.  Through his life's work, including his role helping create Gay Men's Health Crisis and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Rodger helped countless New Yorkers live longer and healthier lives.  Roger moved away from New York some years ago, but he left a tremendous legacy that continues to make New York a better and more compassionate city.  As family and friends from coast to coast celebrate Rodger's life, I ask New Yorkers to keep them in their thoughts and prayers."

Statement of Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn:

"Rodger McFarlane's tragic death is a tremendous loss will be felt throughout the LGBT community and beyond. Rodger's work to advance issues concerning the LGBT community spanned more than two decades, during which he was at the forefront of fighting for equal rights and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS.

"One of his most notable achievements was with New York's Gay Men's Health Crisis. As one of the organization's earliest leaders, McFarlane paved the way in responding to the HIV/AIDS crisis.

"Rodger McFarlane was an unbelievably dedicated activist who had an unwavering commitment and fought tirelessly for the LGBT community. There are countless individuals who are indebted to Rodger's groundbreaking work, and he will be greatly missed."







MEDIA CONTACT:


Stu Loeser (Mayor)   (212) 788-2958

Jamie McShane (Speaker)   (212) 788-7116




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