29. Chuck Panozzo (Styx)
As the bassist and co-founder (with his late brother and twin, John) of the rock band Styx, Chuck Panozzo has given much to the world of music. From the 70’s to the early 80’s, Styx produced such hits as “Lady,” “Come Sail Away,” “Angry Young Man” and “Renegade.” They have been together on and off since the early 80’s, with Panozzo participating as much as he was able. He was diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1991, doctors telling him they did not know how to help him. In 1998 he committed himself to getting well and has been on an aggressive regimen ever since. As he says on his website, “I wanted to out myself in a meaningful and positive way.” He chose to announce to the world that he is gay at a Human Rights Campaign dinner in 2001. Panozzo is a strong supporter of the HRC and is involved with HIV/AIDS awareness activities. As he says, “I want to be sure laws are made and protected for all. There will be no second-class citizens in this society.”
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