MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) — In many different spots around New York City, it was a post-Pride Parade after-party to remember.
Atop the Arlo Nomad Hotel in Midtown, in the shadow of the Empire State Building, the drinks were flowing and the music was inviting.
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But those celebrating were also remembering the decades of struggle for gay rights.
“There was a time where teachers were in danger of losing their jobs because they were gay,“ Paul Ducett, a Pride marcher, told PIX11 News. “There were babies that were being taken away from same-sex couples. Couples and partners were not allowed to go into the hospital,” he added.
Another person attending the Arlo party, Vanessa Devillez, told PIX11 News: “I was one of the couples. I’m not a couple anymore who fought for same-sex marriages.”
At Pride Fest on Fourth Avenue, billed as the largest LGBTQIA+ festival in the world, there was lots of fabulous food and fun, but also a serious side.
“It’s not just a party, but it’s to celebrate the history of our ancestors are trans ancestors, who fought for our rights to love who we want to love,” Tyrie, a PrideFest attendee, told PIX11 News.
In front of the Stonewall Inn, where the 1969 riots sparked the gay rights movement, the 83-year-old head of security welcomed these super large crowds because the gay rights struggle is ongoing.
“It makes me happy. It makes me feel good that people appreciate Stonewall and what we believe in,” Diana Rapp, head of security for the Stonewall Inn, told PIX11 News.
“This is where it started, and I feel so honored to be in New York,” Charlie Byrd, a Stonewall visitor, told PIX11 News. “ I can be exactly who I am and it makes me very happy,” Byrd added.
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