OBITUARY: Norm Kent: A Pioneer of LGBT and Marijuana Activism

Norm Kent was an attorney, publisher, radio host, and a trailblazer for LGBT and marijuana rights, a champion of social justice and a mentor to many, passed away in Florida on April 13, 2023, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

Kent was one of the founding members of NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, and served as its national board chairman. He fought for the legalization of cannabis and the end of the war on drugs. As a lawyer, he defended countless clients who faced discrimination, harassment and criminalization because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Kent founded the Express Gay News in 1999, which later became the South Florida Blade.

In January 2010, Kent launched a new newspaper and website called South Florida Gay News, along with a new business partner Piero Guidugli, who stayed with the company until 2020.

Norm Kent will be missed by many, but his spirit will live on in his work and his impact. He was a pioneer of LGBT and marijuana activism.