Pittsfield Organizations Remember Late Community Advocate
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City Council on Tuesday bowed their heads to recognize the loss of a local advocate, Ephraim Alexander Schwartz.
"Ephraim was a familiar presence in these chambers and a passionate advocate to advance human rights for everyone," said Ward 6 Councilor Dina Lampiasi, who called for the moment of silence
"Everything we do, we do in community. Including grief and loss," the nonprofit wrote. "Berkshire Pride is mourning the loss of Ephraim Schwartz, a local activist, friend, and community member."
A memorial service will be held at Temple Anshe Amunim on Sunday, March 15, at 11 a.m.
Schwartz was one of the early organizers of Queer Men of the Berkshires (Q-MoB), served on the Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition board, and was one of the founders of the Berkshire Queer History Project and a founder of Pittsfield Housing for All.
He regularly spoke against the proposed median and camping ordinances that were brought forward last year.
"May we all remember his wonderful smile, unshakeable commitment to justice & empowering the voices and dignity of those who are marginalized, attacked, or forgotten," Q-MoB wrote on the event page for the memorial service.
Berkshire Pride encouraged community members to email info@berkshirepride.org for resources and support.
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