SFGN FOUNDER NORM KENT RECEIVES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

John Hayden

It takes a lifetime to accomplish everything Norm Kent has done. From fighting the early battles for LGBT rights, to holding power accountable, to telling stories even when he knew it would cost him money, Norm Kent has been a loud and relentless advocate for South Florida’s LGBT community.

That’s why on Jan. 26, the Wilton Manors Business Association (WMBA) honored him with their lifetime achievement award.

“Anyone in government today, anyone in power holding office, that thinks they can question the rigor, resolve and responsibility of gay men in Wilton Manors, let them come to Wilton Manors today,” Kent said during his acceptance speech. “You have won in proving yourself righteous. They forget the resolve and strength and incredible awesome ability to stand against adversity.”

WMBA President Gary Van Horn said, “It was great to see Kent at the awards ceremony. His dedication to our community was definitely inspiring and we are proud as an organization to recognize his great work!”

Kent, an attorney by trade and activist by nature, has fought for the community since the post-Stonewall days. He was a loud voice shouting down Anita Bryant’s vicious attacks to repeal Dade County’s very basic LGBT protection law in the 1970s, and countless other battles that needed to be fought to bring the community where it is today.

Howard Marr, his longtime friend and fellow activist, introduced Kent. “Norm plays a vital role in shaping and developing our community that he loves so much.”

Going forward, WMBA will call the honor the Norm Kent Lifetime Achievement Award.