On April 15, 1972, Morty Manford, a gay rights activist, was beaten while distributing flyers protesting the media’s handling of LGBTQ+ issues at a political gathering in New York City. The injuries put him in the hospital.
In protest, his mother Jeanne Manford, a school teacher, wrote letters, did radio interviews and appeared on television calling for justice for her son.
The Manfords made history marching together at the 1972 New York Pride March. She carried a sign that read “Parents of Gays Unite in Support for Our Children.” This was historic at a time when homosexuality was deemed taboo and in some cases criminalized.
Jeanne went on to live a life as an activist and co-founded Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, a LGBTQ+ advocacy group.
“Everybody’s Favorite Mother”
If you go
🗓️ Sept. 3-20
📍 Phoenix Theatre Cultural Theatre, 705 N. Illinois St.
🎟️ $15-$50
Her story is captured in James Still’s “Everybody’s Favorite Mother.” The production — directed by Zack Neiditch — runs through Sept. 20 at Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre. Tickets are $15-$50.
The fast-paced play jumps around in time, from President Barack Obama’s administration, to the year 1972 and present day.
Phoenix Theatre’s digital program describes “Everybody’s Favorite Mother” as a love story disguised as a protest.
Morty Manford is played by Jack Ducat. Constance Macy, who is the Christel DeHaan Artistic Director at Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre, takes on the role of Jeanne Manford.
Macy said audiences can expect surprises, stunning visuals and a whirlwind of emotions.
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Mirror Indy reporter Mesgana Waiss covers arts and culture. Contact her at 317-667-2643 or mesgana.waiss@mirrorindy.org.
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