|
Our History
MACT/NY began in 1980 as Black and White Men Together. Initially, a group with this name formed in San Francisco. The idea was to create a consciousness-raising and support group for gay men involved in or interested in multiracial relationships.
Press releases, notices and ads were sent out in hopes of beginning such a group in New York City. There was an immediate response and obvious interest.
The philosophy of what was then BWMT/NY developed to encompass a wide variety of activities, from social events through consciousness-raising and personal growth to overt political action. Members were free to choose how much to get involved and as to what aspect of the group interested them.
One of BWMT/NY's most prominent early activities consisted of its Discrimination Documentation Project, a response created by our Political Action Committee to monitor cases of discrimination in gay establishments. Those bars or clubs which had discriminatory admissions or "carding" policies at the door were boycotted, which resulted in either financial settlements or the closing down of some establishments.
After five years of existence, we decided to change our name in order to make our chapter more inclusive of gay men of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The group decided upon the name Men of All Colors Together because it serves as a reflection of the many diverse groups of people in New York City.
|
|