The Facebook group, Gay New York 1970s and 80s, serves as a virtual time machine, taking tens of thousands of followers back to a vibrant LGBTQ past in New York City. Created by Michael Hawke, who moved to the city in 1976, the group shares stories of legendary clubs, first loves, and the challenges faced during the AIDS epidemic. The page has become a supportive community where members share memories, photos, and videos from the era, preserving the past while building connections for the future.
Hawke’s initial goal was to write a memoir, but friends encouraged him to share his stories online, leading to the creation of the Facebook group. The group’s mission expanded to allow members to share their own stories, attracting a diverse mix of individuals, both old and young, who engage in discussions, share memories, and provide support to one another. The group has become a place of healing and connection, with members seeking information about lost loved ones to connect with others who share similar experiences.
The success of the group is attributed to Hawke’s principles of service and community-building, drawing on his experiences in Alcoholics Anonymous. The group remains focused on LGBTQ history and the stories of its members, avoiding discussions of outside issues. Despite the challenges of modern technology, the group has provided a platform for intergenerational connections and a sense of community that transcends time and space. For Hawke, the group has become not only a form of legacy but also a source of inspiration and connection for others to share and preserve the LGBTQ history of New York City.
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