By Ashley Bamfo
The Rainbow History Project remembers and honors the life and legacy of Cornelius Baker, a remarkable AIDS activist and advocate whose decades-long fight against HIV/AIDS has left an indelible mark on Washington, D.C., the LGBTQ+ community, and the nation. Cornelius dedicated his life to the cause of health equity, dignity, and access for people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, and his impact on public health and LGBTQ+ advocacy will never be forgotten.
A respected voice and champion, Cornelius served between 2000-2004 as the executive director of the Whitman-Walker Clinic, now Whitman-Walker Health, where he led the organization in providing essential health care services to the LGBTQ+ community at a critical time in the AIDS crisis. Through his leadership and unwavering commitment, he worked to destigmatize HIV/AIDS, expand services, and establish comprehensive care for those most affected.
Beyond Whitman-Walker, Cornelius took his advocacy to the national stage, lending his expertise and passion to a host of influential organizations, including the National Black Gay Men’s Advocacy Coalition and the President’s Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS. His leadership was characterized by empathy, strength, and a profound dedication to underserved communities, particularly Black LGBTQ+ individuals who were disproportionately affected by the epidemic.
Cornelius leaves behind a profound legacy of courage and activism. His life’s work has saved lives, influenced public health policies, and inspired countless advocates to continue the fight against HIV/AIDS. In his memory, the Rainbow History Project commits to upholding his spirit of resilience, community, and justice as we continue to honor the rich history of LGBTQ+ activism.
Just this year, Cornelius held a series of salons at his home, bringing together a diverse group of LGBTQ+ community activists and current and past DC city council members to put a spotlight on often-avoided issues such as how the city is addressing (and failing to address) on-going drug and HIV epidemics, and also to highlight the work of Rainbow History Project.
Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives were touched by Cornelius Baker’s kindness, vision, and tireless work. His memory will live on as we continue the work he championed and carry his legacy forward.
To honor these and other contributions, Rainbow History Project named Baker a Community Pioneer in 2007.
Explore these Rainbow History Project archives relating to Cornelius Baker:
2007 Community Pioneers biography
Oral history interview
