Not only did he stand shoulder to shoulder with supporters and frontline and grassroots workers, but Rev. Vance Haywood, senior pastor at St. John’s Metropolitan Community Church, got a brief one-on-one meeting with President Joe Biden.

"Mark, at the time, didn't think we could have children. It was before open gayness was a thing. He had doubts it would happen," said Rick Godette.

To see a police officer on camera taking the life of someone he was sworn to serve and protect was heartbreaking and senseless. As a black man who has experienced racism and discrimination, it’s deeply disturbing to see such a blatant disregard for human life.