The publisher of a leading LGBTQ media outlet, Troy Masters, has died, according to an announcement from the outlet. Masters, who was 63, passed away on Wednesday.
The Los Angeles Blade, which Masters founded in 2017 as a sister publication to the Washington Blade, noted that he “died unexpectedly.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague,” Blade management said in a statement. “Troy Masters is a pioneer who championed LGBTQ rights as well as best-in-class journalism for our community. We will miss his passion and his tireless dedication to the Los Angeles queer community.”
Masters’ family also expressed their grief in a statement. “We are shocked and devastated by the loss of Troy,” the family said. “He was a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community and leaves a tremendous legacy of fighting for social justice and equality. We ask for your prayers and for privacy as we mourn this unthinkable loss. We will announce details of a celebration of life in the near future.”
Vaxed?
It’s being reported that it was suicide. Please post some help lines for people that are dealing with depression.
I think a whole article on this subject would be helpful. More and more, I’m seeing older gay men choosing to end their lives. I think some gay men reach a point where they perceive that their value to the community has diminished and don’t have meaningful relationships that last into their golden years. Maybe they get tired of the judgment and rejection, especially in online spaces. This is why services for LGBTQ elders are so important. Unfortunately, some don’t get the love and support they need and choose to end their lives.
988 is the National Suicide Prevention hotline number
Sad news for the community. Troy started The Los Angeles Blade in a time after Edge, Frontiers and the rest had stopped publication. LGBTQRST print press remains a vital way to spread community news and provide forums for those not on-line. I still picked up a copy at The Center. Troy Masters will be missed. Many of us are in a bit of shock. Every day matters. May he rest in peace.