Accusations Of Misconduct At The Gay Men’s Chorus of L.A.

(Photo: WeHo Mayor John Duran)

The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles told its members Monday that longtime board chairman and major fundraiser John Duran will step down from his post at the end of the season — a change that comes amid allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct, reports The Los Angeles Times.

Duran, who also is mayor of West Hollywood, denied any wrongdoing and said that after 20 years with the chorus, he was planning to leave anyway. But, he said, the “toxic” climate within the organization spurred by “false allegations” contributed to his decision to step down this summer.

In interviews with The Times, three current or former chorus members accused Duran of inappropriate touching and comments. These allegations, they said, were reported to the chorus membership committee, which handles internal complaints, but chorus leadership did not follow up.

Written by The Fight