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Ana Sisnett, one of the founding members of the Lesbian.com team and Vice President of
the Lesbian.com board, passed away Tuesday January 13th 2009 after a 3 year struggle with
ovarian cancer. Ana died at her Austin home, in the company of some of her many loved ones...
being given the tender loving care she so deserved and lavished so freely on others
throughout her life.
Born in Panama, Ana moved to Los Angeles as a girl; she
came to Austin TX as a young mother who became deeply connected to the progressive communities
of the area. Ana was a poet and writer, a visual and performing artist, a community activist
supporting peace and justice, womyn's rights, indigenous and Latina/Latino peoples, community
technology, the arts, and the queer community. Very well known and loved in Austin, Ana's
activist work on community-based internet and womyn's rights brought her international
involvement and recognition. She trained many womyn around the world on how to use the
internet in her role as "technomama".
A blog-womon in Austin, Maggie, wrote a beautiful and suitable tribute to Ana. Maggie shares her
memories of a remarkable womon as well as many other links related to Ana's life
and work. Be sure to read the bit about the mango poem... everyone who ever had the pleasure to
hear her read it or to see her painting renditions of that luscious fruit has had special
delight... and you can get a taste of it in Maggie's blog.
Mel Bramyn, also a co-founder and board member of Lesbian.com, offers her thoughts "Ana, offered us her encouragement and wisdom and inspired all who were blessed by her presence."
Accolades for Ana's life and contributions have been pouring in since news of her death; the
diverse voices of appreciation stem from her many spheres on influence and reflect highlights
of her essence. Words used frequently describe Ana as "dedicated... committed... an advocate
for others", "passionate... sparkling... warm and loving", brilliant.... knowledgeable, capable,
smart and witty", "stunning, sexy, beautiful in mind and spirit, a diva." Accompanying the
accolades are endless expressions of condolences for Ana's partner, Priscilla, her mother and
brothers, her children and beloved grandchildren, her vast network of friends and community.
These reflections speak of the tremendous impact Ana had on so many people's lives, and of the
deep sense of gratitude of all who had the chance to know her.
Sue Beckwith, President and CEO of
Lesbian.com, and long time close friend of Ana, echoes the resounding impact of Ana Sisnett,
sharing her belief that Ana lives on as "her light continues to shine brightly through all those
she touched".
Guestbook to leave your thoughts about Ana
Ana Sisnett's family requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to one of the following causes in Ana's honor:
The Care Communities
7215 Cameron Road
Austin, Texas 78752
Web: http://www.interfaithcarealliance.org
Austin Free-Net
2209 Rosewood Ave.
Austin, TX 78702
Web: http://www.austinfree.net/
Contributions to cover Ana's medical expenses and final arrangements may be made to:
Priscilla Hale
P.O. Box 6149
Austin, TX 78762
Celebrating Ana
Join us Saturday, January 24, at 1:00 PM
as we honor Ana SisnettŐs life and spirit
Trinity United Methodist Church
600 E 50th St, Austin, TX
Links:
Austin newspaper blog
Austin Latino Lesbian Gay Organiziation
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