The Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights served as a pivotal gathering advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, with a significant focus on the AIDS crisis affecting the community. The march was organized amidst rising awareness and growing frustration over the government's response to the AIDS epidemic, which was ravaging the gay community. Its climax featured the first display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, a poignant art installation initiated by activist Cleve Jones. The quilt consisted of thousands of colorful panels commemorating the lives of those who had succumbed to AIDS, each stitched with personal stories and memories by friends and family members. This large-scale visual impact provided a stark representation of the human cost of the epidemic and challenged the public to address its social and health implications actively.

The location of the quilt display on the National Mall allowed it to be seen by millions, both participants of the march and passersby in the capital. The event was not only a memorial but also a call for action, highlighting the need for increased funding for AIDS research, treatment accessibility, and comprehensive healthcare policies. The display fostered a significant moment of communal support and remembrance, encouraging dialogue around AIDS and mobilizing grassroots activism aimed at the federal government.

Following the unveiling, the quilt grew over the years, representing not just individual losses but also the broader impact of AIDS on families and communities. Its creation brought together a diverse range of individuals and organizations, uniting them in a common cause. The quilt has since continued to be a symbol of memorialization, commemorating lives lost and reminding society of the ongoing struggle against HIV/AIDS.