Alfred M. Freedman, psychiatrist who helped remove stigma from homosexuality, dies at 94

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Alfred M. Freedman, psychiatrist who helped remove stigma from homosexuality, dies at 94

By Emma Brown, Thursday, April 21, 10:12 PM

Alfred M. Freedman, a prominent New York psychiatrist who in 1973, as president of the American Psychiatric Association, played a key role in ending the classification of homosexuality as a mental illness, died April 17 at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.

He was 94 and died of complications from surgery to treat a fractured hip.

In April 1972, The Washington Post reported that the 15,000-member American Psychiatric Association had been taken over by “a group of young dissidents” who thought it was the APA’s responsibility to speak out on the controversial social issues of the day, including racism, war, and treatment of gay men and lesbians.

Among the dissidents’ allies was Dr. Freedman, {who} ... agreed to run for president of the association against a more conservative opponent — a member of what Dr. Freedman called the APA’s “old boys’ club” — and eked out a surprise victory, winning by three votes out of more than 9,100.

[xchrom]

1. may Peace be with his family and friends at this time.

and thanks for your efforts for us.

[MineralMan]

2. RIP, Dr. Freedman.

You did good things. Thanks.

[BlueIris]

3. Great man.

Great story. RIP, Doctor.

[stillwaiting]

4. Thank you SO much for your life's work Dr. Freedman. nt