HRC on the Passing of Congressman Barney Frank

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Human Rights Campaign mourns the passing of former Congressman Barney Frank, a groundbreaking public servant whose courage, visibility, and legislative leadership helped transform what was possible for the LGBTQ+ community in America, especially his early leadership for gay and lesbian visibility.

First elected to Congress in 1980, Frank made history in 1987 when he became the first member of Congress to voluntarily come out while in office, at a time when being openly gay in national politics was widely viewed as career-ending. Instead of retreating, Frank helped redefine the possibilities for LGBTQ+ political leaders in America, proving that openly gay people could not only serve in Congress, but shape the nation’s future.

At the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis, Frank was one of few lawmakers willing to push the federal government to respond with greater urgency, while too many elected officials remained silent. He helped  build momentum toward the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the enactment of marriage equality.  He advocated for broader federal anti-discrimination protections and backed transformational hate crimes protections including the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. 

Frank also shattered outdated assumptions about LGBTQ+ leadership by becoming one of the most influential lawmakers in Congress on issues far beyond equality. As Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, he helped author the landmark Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, demonstrating that LGBTQ+ leaders belonged at the center of every major national debate.

Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson issued the following statement:

“Barney Frank was nothing short of a trailblazer. At a time when being openly gay in public service could cost you everything, he chose visibility. At a time when our community was being devastated by AIDS and too many leaders looked away, he demanded action. He helped pave the way for the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ stronger federal protections, marriage equality, and a future where LGBTQ+ people could see themselves not just represented but leading at the highest levels of government. We are holding his husband, family, and loved ones in our hearts as we honor his life of service.”