ENROLLED ORIGINAL
A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
25-169
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
January 9, 2024
To celebrate the life and continued work of Paul Kuntzler as a pioneering gay activist and
political strategist who has dedicated over 5 decades of his life to advancing the rights
and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community in Washington, D.C.
WHEREAS, Mr. Kuntzler is known as a pioneer and Founding Father of the modern
LGBTQ+ movement in Washington, DC;
WHEREAS, Mr. Kuntzler played a pivotal role in the formation of the Gay Activists
Alliances in 1971 and co-founded the Gertrude Stein Democratic Club in 1976 (now known as
the Capital Stonewall Democrats), contributing significantly to the emergence of the local gay
community as a significant player and coalition builder in DC politics and the local power
structure; and;
WHEREAS, Mr. Kuntzler actively pushed for the inclusion of gay rights and gay
delegates during the D.C. Democratic State Committee conventions of 1972, 1976 and 1980,
thereby continuing the push for recognition and participation and power for LGBTQ+ rights
within the political mainstream;
WHEREAS, Mr. Kuntzler’s involvement in local political campaigns, including his
support for Marion Barry’s first mayoral campaign, showcased the growing importance of the
gay community in shaping election outcomes;
WHEREAS, then-Mayor Marion Barry issued a proclamation declaring April 9, 1981 as
Paul Kuntzler Day in the District;
WHEREAS, Mr. Paul Kuntzler marched in front of the Whtie House on several occasions
as part of a growing coalition of LGBTQ+ activists focused on achieving full rights and
privileges for those in the Federal government workforce, bringing his activism to a new,
broader, and national level.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Paul Kuntzler Recognition Resolution of 2024.”
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 ENROLLED ORIGINAL
Sec. 2 The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors the incredible
service of Paul Kuntzler in recognition of his recent 82nd birthday and extends its deepest
gratitude for his enduring commitment to earning the LGBTQ+ community in Washington, D.C.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.
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