Hold Tight Gently

The book serves as a poignant tribute to individuals lost to AIDS, highlighting the contributions of two pivotal figures in the early years of the epidemic. Callen, a white gay man from the Midwest, emerged as a key advocate for AIDS awareness amidst societal neglect. In contrast, Hemphill, an African American gay poet, enriched the black gay and lesbian community in Washington, D.C. through his powerful and introspective poetry, capturing the emotional depth of the struggle during this critical time.