Thomas G. Kalt Jr.

Carpenters' Hall

You are now here at the Carpenters' Hall courtyard. This beautiful location is where one of the most important events when establishing the United States was held: the First Continental Congress. However, peaceful places like this can also be the home of sad moments. On January 6, 1999, Thomas G Kalt Jr. chose this area to be the place where he took his own life. Nevertheless, we should remember him for the positive impact he had during his lifetime. He was known among the queer community for his sense of humor and dedication to his community. He was a highly committed volunteer for the AIDS Fund and regularly attended their Gay Bingo fund-raising events each month. He was also known to usher at the Philadelphia International Gay and Lesbian Film Festivals of the 80's and 90's.

Kalt was also the first gay police officer in Philadelphia. Even in uniform, his classic humor was on full display, saving the first doughnut he was served on the job as a keepsake. To gays and lesbians, Kalt was a sign of change, a symbol of progress in a police department that historically has had numerous physical confrontations with gay residents and a marker that years of street protest and political lobbying had finally resulted in placing one of their own on a force that had once raided gay bars and bashed queer individuals. Unfortunately, he would pass only three weeks after being issued his badge and gun. Thomas G. Kalt Jr.'s presence in the LGBTQ+ community of Philadelphia left a lasting impression. Despite the tragic circumstances of his passing, he should be remembered for his positive impact and contributions during his lifetime.

Thomas G. Kalt Jr. in uniform. Photo curtisy of Philadelphia Police Department

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Crisis intervention phone line: 1-800-273-8255

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LGBTQ+ National Hotline: https://lgbthotline.org/

Support and crisis intervention phone line: 1-888-843-4564

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The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

LGBTQ+ youth support and crisis intervention phone line: 1-866-488-7386

Citations

DAHIR, MUBARAK S. 1999 A Philadelphia tragedy. The Free Library (February, 16), https://www.thefreelibrary.com/A Philadelphia tragedy.-a053877983

'Thomas Gilbert Kalt.' Greater Philly GOAL. Accessed April 21, 2024. https://www.phillygoal.org/memorial/thomas-gilbert-kalt.