Jonathan Perry

Jonathan Perry is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, a historically Black college in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the first black, openly gay, HIV+ student at an HBCU to speak out in the United States. An ardent student activist, Perry not only organized forums on race and sexual orientation but also founded the university’s first official gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) organization.

Originally from Goldsboro, North Carolina, Perry contracted HIV in 2000 during a visit to the West Coast. "It took me a year to understand that I could very well die from this disease," he reflects, having fortunately not fallen ill from the infection since. Engaging in HIV-education programs on campus played a crucial role in helping him overcome the depression that nearly claimed his life. He publicly shared his story for the first time in 2002 during an assembly at Johnson C. Smith University, attended by over 150 students.

Perry’s activism gained significant recognition and led to his appearance on national platforms. His journey was notably highlighted when Oprah Winfrey invited him onto her show "Men Living on the Down Low" after reading about him on CNN.com in April 2004. Additionally, he was featured on BET’s "Open Mic" and on BET.com. During this period, Perry also completed a three-month consulting contract with the Black AIDS Institute in Los Angeles, California in September 2004.

Perry’s commitment to activism is evident in his role at significant events, such as delivering the keynote address at Harvard University’s first Unite Against AIDS Summit, where he was also honored as the first recipient of the Unite Against AIDS Inspiration Award. Recognized for his impactful contributions, POZ Magazine named him one of the six Superheroes of 2004, ranking him number three.

On the topic of his HIV status, Perry maintains a candid demeanor: "I’m the type of person who keeps all of my skeletons on the front door. That way when [someone] goes rambling in my closets, all they’ll find are clothes." Despite facing both public appreciation and criticism, he remains steadfast in his belief that the visibility and awareness he generates are vital: "It’s no longer about Jonathan. It’s about inspiring a hope that is born of responsibility and teaching people to be responsible for their own lives."