Today In Gay History: AIDS Memorial Quilt Put On display In D.C.

The NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt is a dedication to individuals who have been affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

48,000 3-by-6-foot memorial panels have been added to the quilt, most of which commemorate loved ones who lost their lives to HIV/AIDS-related complications.

The quilt was put on display 29 years ago today on October 11, 1987 in the National Mall of Washington, D.C. during the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, the official website reports.

During that time the quilt had 1,920 panels and attracted nearly half a million people to the site. The growing attraction for the quilt caused it to go on a four-month tour through 20 cities.

Today, the quilt remains an iconic piece of history that has brought nearly 14 million people together since its debut.