Lambda Legal today dedicated a commemorative bench honoring Thomas B. Stoddard, who served as Lambda Legal’s Executive Director from 1986 to 1992, at the NYC AIDS Memorial Park. The ceremony brought together LGBTQ+ advocates, legal professionals, and friends to celebrate Stoddard’s enduring legacy in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and HIV advocacy.
During the dedication, Lambda Legal CEO Kevin Jennings reflected on Stoddard’s transformative leadership during the height of the AIDS crisis and his pioneering legal work that established many precedents for LGBTQ+ rights.
“Tom Stoddard’s visionary leadership during one of the most challenging periods in LGBTQ+ history helped shape Lambda Legal into the organization it is today,” said Lambda Legal CEO, Kevin Jennings. “This bench will serve as a permanent reminder of his courage, legal brilliance, and unwavering commitment to justice.”
Several of Stoddard’s close friends and colleagues shared personal reflections, highlighting his compassionate approach to advocacy and his strategic legal mind that helped advance protections for LGBTQ+ Americans and people living with HIV.
Following the dedication ceremony, attendees gathered at Mino Brasserie for a reception celebrating Stoddard’s life and accomplishments.
The commemorative bench, located within the AIDS Memorial Park at 76 Greenwich Avenue, will provide visitors a place for reflection and remembrance, connecting Stoddard’s legacy to ongoing work for equality.