In the 1970s, John Damien, a prominent figure in gay rights advocacy from Windsor, was well-known. However, his story has since faded from public memory, prompting local sculptor Donna Mayne to immortalize him in her latest artwork.
Mayne, inspired by Damien’s courageous fight for equality, has spent the past two weeks sculpting a bust of him, capturing his features from historical photographs. She described him as having a broad forehead, strong jaw, and gentle eyes, reflecting a kind personality.
Her aim is to raise awareness of Damien’s contributions to Canadian laws and the Human Rights Code. Damien, a former jockey who faced discrimination for his sexual orientation, was dismissed in 1975 from the Ontario Racing Commission due to concerns that his decisions could be influenced by his sexuality.
Undeterred, Damien challenged this discrimination, leading to a landmark legal battle. Despite facing obstacles, he ultimately succeeded in bringing attention to the need for inclusion of sexual orientation in human rights legislation.
Walter Cassidy, a researcher from the Windsor-Essex Rainbow Alliance, emphasized Damien’s national impact, highlighting the protests and media coverage that surrounded his case. Cassidy praised Damien for putting a face on LGBTQ rights, calling him a hero who influenced many.
Although Damien passed away in 1986, his legacy lives on through legislative changes that he helped bring about. Cassidy has penned a manuscript detailing Damien’s life, underscoring the importance of remembering and honoring queer history.
Mayne’s clay bust of Damien is nearing completion, serving as a tribute to his legacy. While she is unsure about casting the sculpture in bronze or its final placement, she hopes it sparks conversations and pays homage to Damien’s forward-looking spirit.