San Francisco AIDS Foundation issued a statement on the passing of LGBTQ+ trailblazer Ambassador James Hormel

SAN FRANCISCO, August 13, 2021— We are heartbroken to learn of the death of Ambassador James Hormel, the U.S.’ first openly gay person to serve as an Ambassador to Luxembourg from 1999 to 2001.

“Jim’s life was an example to all of service and dedication to the community. The LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS movements would not be where we are without his support, activism and philanthropy, especially here in San Francisco. When others were afraid to sign their names on checks written to AIDS organizations, he was writing them constantly,” said Russell Roybal, SFAF’s Chief Advancement Officer. “His legacy will live on in countless organizations and causes he has supported across the nonprofit sector. We will miss him terribly.”

As an LGBTQ+ trailblazer and one of San Francisco AIDS Foundation’s early supporters and longtime donors, Ambassador Hormel fought fiercely against HIV/AIDS stigma by rallying support for more community resources and services— his advocacy would later influence national HIV/AIDS policy. 

He is survived by his husband Michael and his children Alison, Anne, Elizabeth, James Jr. and Sarah.