Honoring a Career of GLBT Activism in Atlanta

From the Atlanta-Journal Constitution (thanks to PageOneQ for the tip):

Emily "Dixon" Taylor's work in Atlanta's gay and lesbian community began in the 1980s.

"We came together raising awareness in the battle against AIDS," said longtime friend Michael Aycock. "She has brought the gay and lesbian and the straight communities together in the larger Atlanta community in a really good way."

Taylor's personality and passion for helping others has fueled a broad array of outreach work that includes gay issues, AIDS, breast cancer, domestic abuse, troubled youth and ecological issues.

"Dixon's huge talent is the fact that she knows everyone," said business partner Gary Kaupman. "She's a wonderful weaver of connections between people; she's naturally gregarious and outgoing."

Taylor, an Alabama native, recently became the second recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

Taylor grew up in Birmingham, but knew she'd eventually have to leave.

"I couldn't be gay, I couldn't be me and live in Birmingham," Taylor said. "Not in the 1960s."

Birmingham's loss was clearly Atlanta's gain. Congratulation to Ms. Taylor on her award.

Click here to read the rest of the story in the AJC.