Just last week, on June 24, President Obama declared the area around New York City’s Stonewall Inn the first national monument for the LGBT+ community. This monument signifies support for, acceptance of and respect for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, etc. individuals that has the potential to reach national levels. In the wake of the Pulse nightclub shooting, this dedication doesn’t nearly fix the damage that has been done, and continues to be done, to LGBT+ people, but it brings the community closer together.
The designated area includes the Stonewall Inn itself, Christopher Park and the streets that remain icons of the 1969 Stonewall riots.
The Stonewall riots themselves took place on June 28 in 1969, when a police unit raided the Stonewall Inn, a notable gay bar, at the time. And the Stonewall Inn was not the only hangout to become victim to homophobia and hate crimes during this time, or even today, as Pulse shows us. But in 1969, patrons of the Inn fought back for their rights—their right to life, liberty and their own pursuits of happiness, despite what society dictates as accepted or normal. For weeks afterward, people were seen in the surrounding area picketing and protesting for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, etc. livelihoods.
Two days after the announcement, Sunday, June 26 is New York City’s annual pride march -- a celebration for LGBT+ individuals everywhere. No matter what anyone says, no matter how much hate and prejudice bigots wish to stain the LGBT+ community with, everyone is welcome to wave their colors and broadcast their identities to the world with pride for who they are.
Despite the events that took place in Pulse still stinging like an open wound, this monument at Stonewall is a reason to feel triumphant over those like Omar Mateen, the shooter, and anyone who supports him.
During the announcement, President Obama even remarked, “I believe our national parks should reflect the full story of our country -- the richness and diversity and uniquely American spirit that has always defined us, that we are stronger together. That out of many, we are one.”
In regards to the LGBT+ community, there is an emphasis on individuality, on the uniqueness of identity, so while we are stronger together, it’s important to respect the person in the group.
The Stonewall monument bodes good things for the future, showing a rich history wrought with struggle, but so very strong in the face of adversity nonetheless.
