In our actions, GAG activists dressed in all-white clothing and veils are referred to as Human Beings. They stand in silent vigil, each holding a placard for an individual killed by gun violence. Each placard includes a black and white photograph of the person we are holding space for, in remembrance, along with shared details of their life and death.

GAG’s Human Beings are an important presence in our actions, especially in annual vigils marking the Pulse massacre and on the Transgender Day of Remembrance, where we strive to have enough volunteers to represent every person killed by guns. There is also a Human Beings Facebook page, inspired by the AIDS Memorial page, that shares remembrances for people killed by the ongoing gun violence epidemic.

Our Human Beings first appeared at New York City Pride in 2016, less than two weeks after the Pulse shooting. Devised by performer and GAG member Tigger! Ferguson, they were initially conceived as a unique way to mourn and honor the lives lost. As GAG evolved, the Human Beings have become an intrinsic part of our DNA.

Everyone is welcome to take part. Contact us to find out how to participate in New York or in your local area.