Jeffrey Schmalz began his career as a copy boy in 1973 and worked at The New York Times for his entire professional life, becoming a political editor and reporter on HIV and AIDS. In December 1990, he suffered a brain seizure that revealed he was living with AIDS. Schmalz had previously stayed in the closet but after his diagnosis became public, he used his position to advocate for those living with AIDS. Returning to work within a year, he wrote powerful articles on the human impact of the disease, challenging ignorance and pushing journalism forward. He became a strong voice for equal rights, known for his devotion to accuracy, his sharp-edged writing style and his innate sense of politics. Schmalz passed away in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of courage, empathy and groundbreaking journalism.
