New York Governor Kathy Hochul has officially declared June 2024 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month, marking a time to celebrate the vibrant LGBTQ+ community in New York State. The celebration will include raising LGBTQ+ progress flags across the state and illuminating state landmarks in the colors of the LGBTQ+ pride flag throughout June.
Governor Hochul’s Commitment to LGBTQ+ Rights
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of Pride Month, stating, “Pride Month is a time of celebration and a reminder to continue in our efforts to uplift the rights of the LGBTQ+ community here in New York State.” She further added, “New Yorkers of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions deserve to be safe, heard, and valued. The State of New York stands with and supports the LGBTQ+ community.”
The Governor’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is evident in her policies and investments aimed at supporting marginalized communities. Her efforts include signing legislation to create a safe haven for LGBTQ+ youth in New York and initiating the process of enshrining an Equal Rights Amendment in the New York State constitution.
Visible Symbols of Pride Across New York
To demonstrate solidarity and support for the LGBTQ+ community, progress pride flags will be flown at various locations throughout June. These locations include:
- State Parks across New York
- State Capitol
- Plaza
- Governor’s Mansion
- Numerous State office buildings, including those in Albany, Schenectady, and New York City
Additionally, numerous state landmarks will be illuminated in the colors of the LGBTQ+ pride flag on June 1 and from June 23 to 30. These landmarks include:
- One World Trade Center
- Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
- Kosciuszko Bridge
- The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
- State Education Building
- Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
- Empire State Plaza
- State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
- Niagara Falls
- Albany International Airport Gateway
- Lake Placid Olympic Center
- MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
- Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
- Moynihan Train Hall
- Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
alt
Continued Support and Investment in the LGBTQ+ Community
Governor Hochul’s dedication to the well-being of LGBTQ+ New Yorkers extends beyond symbolic gestures. The FY 2025 Budget includes a $1 million expansion to the Lorena Borjas Transgender and Non-binary Wellness and Equity Fund. This fund aims to support workforce development programs specifically designed for the transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary community.
Furthermore, in June 2023, Governor Hochul announced a series of initiatives to support LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, including:
- A $33.5 million investment to bolster support services for LGBTQ+ individuals
- $20 million dedicated to LGBTQ+ affirming senior housing projects
- $12.5 million allocated to the American LGBTQ+ Museum
- $1 million in funding earmarked for youth suicide prevention programs, focusing on support for TGNCNB (Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming, Non-Binary) New Yorkers
Governor Hochul also signed legislation to safeguard and support the LGBTQ+ community, creating a shield law for youth seeking gender-affirming care and those who assist them.
Promoting LGBTQ+ Tourism in New York State
Recognizing the importance of LGBTQ+ tourism, Empire State Development’s Division of Tourism/I LOVE NY is actively encouraging LGBTQ+ travelers to explore the diverse range of events and destinations available throughout New York State.
Throughout Pride season, I LOVE NY LGBTQ will be present at various events across New York State and New England, promoting travel as part of their most extensive Pride tour to date. I LOVE NY has also partnered with NYC Pride, the organizer of the annual New York City Pride March and Festival, to support their events at the end of June.
Resources for LGBTQ+ Travelers
For those seeking more information about LGBTQ+ travel and events in New York State, I LOVE NY LGBTQ provides a dedicated website with valuable resources:
- Travel guides
- Blogs, including a new piece highlighting LGBTQ-owned businesses
- A Pride event calendar featuring over 60 events across the state
Their social media platforms also feature engaging content, including videos showcasing Fire Island and the new Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center.
To learn more about LGBTQ+ travel and Pride events in New York State, please visit: iloveny.com/things-to-do/lgbtq/.