Corinne Mackey: Black Lesbian Activist and Journalist Who Shaped 1980s San Diego

Hidden within the depths of San Diego’s Lambda Archives lies the narrative of an extraordinary yet unsung figure of the LGBTQ+ movement. Corinne “Marti” Mackey, a trailblazing Black lesbian journalist, committed her life to crafting revolutionary narratives for a local gay and lesbian publication. Her legacy, now being unearthed by historian T.J. Tallie, resonates with power and urgency.

In his quest to comprehend the lived experiences of Black queer individuals in 1980s and 1990s San Diego, Tallie stumbled upon Mackey's indelible contributions. Her powerful voice, unyielding and incisive, was a beacon within what she described as the "Anti-Fluff Brigade."

Mackey's Impact on LGBTQ+ Journalism

Before the digital age transformed public discourse, local newspapers were the heartbeat of the queer community. As Tallie elaborated, these publications were not merely sources of information but communal spaces rich with opinion pieces and vital listings of bars and services.

“Prior to 2010, the best way to know what was happening in the queer community was through our local papers,” Tallie explained. “They were free and served as our public forum before the internet took over.”

Mackey’s articles, brimming with "brilliant urgency," were both celebrated and controversial. She challenged systemic oppression with words that demanded change, famously writing during the 1992 LA Rodney King Riots: "I can forgive you only if your foot is finally released from my throat. I can forgive if we stand toe to toe, eye to eye, for then and only then can forgiveness have significance." Her uncompromising stance against injustice resonated deeply, even as it drew backlash.

Confrontation and Courage

In response to criticism, Mackey was unapologetic. “If you’re stepping on my foot and I tell you to get off, should I be called a troublemaker for not letting you stand on my foot?” she retorted to detractors.

Her confrontational yet witty style shone through in her replies to hate mail, such as when she dismissed a racist letter with cutting humor: "Umm. Not much that's original, or even thoughtful, here. I'll give it a 62. It’s got some kind of a beat, but you sho can’t dance to it."

Tallie recounted his visceral reaction to Mackey’s bold words, describing how he "screamed" in the archives upon reading them.

Legacy and Love

Mackey’s influence extended beyond journalism. She founded Lesbians and Gays of African Descent United (LAGADU) and was honored as Pride’s Woman of the Year in 1991. Despite her achievements, she remained humble, famously remarking in her acceptance speech, "I don’t know why you all want me. I’m just a troublemaker that writes what I see, but I guess this means I got to keep on doing it."

Her personal life was equally inspiring. After her car broke down in San Diego, Mackey decided to make the city her home, falling in love with both the locale and her partner, Phyllis Jackson. Together, they embodied a narrative of activism interwoven with love.

By the early 1990s, Mackey's prolific writing began to slow. She passed away from cancer at the age of 42 in December 1992. Despite her reluctance for recognition, Tallie is determined to ensure Mackey’s story is not forgotten.

Reflecting on Mackey's Enduring Influence

Tallie imagines how Mackey might react to his efforts, picturing her skeptically asking, "So what are you doing? Is it better now?" Her imagined cynicism serves as a poignant reminder to persist in the face of ongoing struggles such as poverty, racism, and inequality.

“I embarked on an investigation into Black queer history in San Diego and found a hero,” Tallie reflected, underscoring the profound impact of Mackey’s life and work.

Corinne Mackey’s legacy, one of courage, resilience, and uncompromising honesty, continues to inspire. Her story is a testament to the power of truth-telling in the pursuit of liberation.