I vividly recall the dark days when stigma and hatred surrounded AIDS, and even in death, the deceased were not spared this injustice. They were often not permitted to be laid to rest in countless funeral homes and cemeteries due to the fear and misunderstanding associated with the disease.

 The Blacksmith Coffee Shop sits on the former  property  the legendary Mary's Bar.in Montrose, Houston, where over 300 men and women who succumbed to AIDS have found their final resting place. It bears a profound historical significance and serves as a silent witness to a community deeply affected by the AIDS crisis.

The Montrose neighborhood has been a pivotal part of the LGBTQ+ community since Mary's opened in 1972. It quickly became a hub where individuals could freely express their identities and find acceptance in a time when it was rare. As the AIDS crisis took its toll, Montrose stood resilient, creating a safe haven for those suffering and mourning the loss of loved ones.

We urge the Blacksmith Coffee Shop to commemorate this history by erecting a monument to honor those who perished from AIDS on its grounds. This monument would serve as a beacon of hope, remembrance, and education, bridging the past with the present. It would honor the courage and resilience of those individuals whose lives were tragically cut short and celebrate the unyielding spirit of the Montrose community.

Erecting a monument would not only preserve the memory of those who have passed but also educate future generations about the impact of the AIDS crisis on Montrose and the importance of community support in times of crisis. This initiative would bring healing and recognition, something the departed and their families have long deserved.

Let us come together to ensure that the sacrifices and stories of those affected are not forgotten. Please sign this petition to support the erection of a monument at Blacksmith Coffee Shop, a lasting tribute to the community's strength and solidarity.