The world has lost a fearless advocate for marijuana and LGBT rights, an avid baseball fan, and a beloved radio talk show host. Attorney Norm Kent, the co-founder of the South Florida Gay News, passed away at the age of 73 on April 13, 2023, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer.
Kent was born Norman Elliott Kent on October 18, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, and his family moved to North Woodmere in Nassau County when he was young. He developed a love for baseball at a young age and became a competitive player. This passion stayed with him throughout his life, and he even equipped his home with 16 televisions to make sure he never missed a game.
But Kent was not just a baseball fanatic. He was also a relentless fighter for justice and equality. He spent his career advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and fighting for the legalization of marijuana. He was a co-founder of the South Florida Gay News, a popular radio talk show host, and a respected attorney.
Those who knew Kent remember him as someone who was never afraid to stand up for what he believed in, no matter the consequences. He was a vocal opponent of discrimination and injustice and a staunch supporter of civil rights.
Fort Lauderdale attorney Russell Cormican, Kent’s law partner for nearly 25 years, spoke about the importance of Kent’s legacy. “He reminds us how important it is to stand up for what you believe in, no matter how unpopular it might be or what types of repercussions or blowback you might get from people, if you know what you’re doing is the right thing,” said Cormican.
In his final interview on March 28, Kent spoke about his cancer diagnosis and how he chose to respond to it. “That day, I said, ‘Let’s fly to Atlanta and go to a Dodgers game. If they’re telling me I have cancer, we’re going to a baseball game,’” he said.
In addition to his final interview with the South Florida Gay News, Norm Kent also recently sat down for an interview with our lead anchor Al Ferguson. In the interview, Kent spoke about his lifelong commitment to social justice and his hope for the future. He also shared his thoughts on the state of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the ongoing fight for marijuana legalization. Kent’s dedication to these issues and his unwavering commitment to justice and equality will continue to inspire us all. Rest in power, Norm Kent.
