Avram Finkelstein: "Silence = Death" and the Image That Defined the AIDS Crisis

Avram Finkelstein: "Silence = Death" and the Image That Defined the AIDS Crisis

Author: Jeffrey Masters June 1, 2026 Duration: 53:18

"Silence = Death" has become the defining image of ACT UP and the AIDS crisis. Avram Finkelstein, co-creator of the Silence = Death poster and a founding member of ACT UP, takes us back to where it all began: how the image came together months before ACT UP was even formed, how the artist collective Gran Fury created the visual language of the AIDS crisis, and why he believes ACT UP was a far more radical group than history remembers.

LGBTQ&A⁠ is an independent, listener-supported podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠ to check out our ⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠⁠ and learn more about how to support our work.

LGBTQ&A features interviews with the most interesting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people in the world. Hosted and produced by Jeffrey Masters. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@jeffmasters1⁠⁠



Each week, LGBTQ&A presents a conversation that feels more like a deep, personal discussion than a formal interview. Host Jeffrey Masters guides these talks, creating a space where guests can share not just their achievements, but the real stories and experiences that shaped them. You’ll hear from a wide spectrum of voices within the community, from celebrated artists and politicians to groundbreaking activists and thinkers, all of whom offer unique perspectives on identity, culture, and the ongoing fight for equality. The roster speaks for itself, featuring illuminating talks with figures like Laverne Cox on visibility, Janelle Monáe on artistry and autonomy, Pete Buttigieg on public service, and the powerful insights of Angela Davis. What sets this podcast apart is its commitment to the nuanced, human narrative behind each public persona. It’s not about quick soundbites; it’s about understanding the journeys, the challenges, and the joys that define contemporary LGBTQ+ life. Tuning in means connecting with intimate, often surprising stories that you won’t find anywhere else, all framed by Jeffrey’s thoughtful and engaged questioning. This is a weekly invitation to listen, learn, and feel a deeper connection to the vibrant and diverse community it represents.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

LGBTQ&A
Podcast Episodes
Greg Louganis: This Is What HIV Looks Like | LGBTQ+ Elders Project [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:15
"When I was in the pool, HIV/AIDS didn't exist. That was a sanctuary for me. It was a place that I could go to, really to seek refuge from the stress of the HIV diagnosis." Four-time Olympic gold medal winner, Greg Louga…
Alexandra Billings: Transgender Acting Legend | LGBTQ+ Elders Project [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:16
Alexandra Billings is redefining what is possible for our community. Before making a name for herself in the Chicago theatre scene and landing her breakout role in the TV show, Transparent, Alexandra was a showgirl and s…
Jamison Green: Where Are All The Trans Men? | LGBTQ+ Elders Project [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:37
Jamison Green has spent his career fighting to make the healthcare world a safer, more accessible place for transgender people. He talks about the seeming invisibility of trans men, gives the best explanation I've ever h…