ACT UP coffin carried to promote AIDS awareness

The St. Louis chapter of AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) was founded in 1990. Member Greg Gerhart created this foamcore coffin, which he carried in marches and demonstrations to dramatize the life-or-death stakes of the epidemic and shock witnesses out of their complacency. Inside, Gerhart later taped a hospital wristband worn by his friend Dennis Chambers, who died of complications from AIDS at age 32, making this coffin a permanent memorial to Chambers and to all living with HIV.

Object Title and Accession Number

ACT UP coffin carried in demonstrations to promote AIDS awareness in St. Louis. Made by Greg Gerhart, ca. 1993. 2004-058-0001.

Side view of black coffin on a white background.

A black coffin-shaped protest sign with red handprints and text. The top reads "ACT UP" and the side says "HEALTHCARE NOT DEATHCARE."

Black coffin on a white background

A black, coffin-shaped cardboard box with red handprints and the words "SILENCE = DEATH" and "ACT UP" in bold white text on its sides. The coffin is taped up and positioned against a plain white background.

Close up of text on a black coffin.

Close up view of the "ACT UP" protest coffin. Red handprints are visible at the top right and bottom center.