Allen Roskoff

Allen Roskoff was the chief lobbyist for the nation's first gay rights bill, for which he is alternately credited as the author and co-author.^[1] The bill, which sought to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, was introduced in 1971 and passed into law in New York City in 1986.^[2] A frequent commentator and columnist, Roskoff has contributed to publications such as The New York Native, Outweek, QW and the New York Blade.^[3]

Allen Roskoff
Citizenship	United States
Occupation	Political activist
Years active	1970–present
Organization	Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club
Known for	LGBTQ+ activism
Political party	Democrat
Partner	Jim Owles

In 2023, The New York Times reported that he has been "a gay rights activist who has worked with the city for over 50 years."^[4] His archives and manuscripts are held at the New York Public Library.^[5][6]

Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club

City and State New York called this club "The most powerful LGBTQ+ political club in the New York City."^[7] The club lists the Rev. Al Sharpton, Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli and other city and state elected officials among its members. As of 2024, Roskoff serves as the club's president.^[8][9]

Political appointments

Roskoff was the first openly gay individual appointed to a New York City community board and the first to hold a position within the office of an elected official.^[10] He also served in the administrations of Comptroller Harrison J. Goldin, and Tom Duane.^[11]

See also

• New York City Gay Rights Bill of 1986