NYC LGBT Community Center Solidarity Event

By Justin

Sometimes flag burning is not limited to the American Flag, even here in New York City. On the morning of April 14th the staff at the center arrived to discover that someone had torched the huge Rainbow Flag hanging out front of the center. NYPD detectives from the hate crimes unit are currently investigating the hate crime incident.

Anyone who has ever walked down 13th street and past the LGBT Community Center knows the Rainbow Flag hanging outside the center is a symbol of pride and is a welcoming greeting to everyone that comes into the center. The LGBT Community Center is an amazing place here in NYC. It is the meeting place for the community. Over 300 groups meet at the center from SAGE to the New York City Gay Men's Chorus. More than 1,000 youth come through the centers doors annually for support.

Center video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kELATKa28t4&feature=player_embedded#!

In response to this hate crime, the center held "A Community Response In Solidarity" Event to raise a brand new 20 foot Rainbow Flag.

More with photos after the break

It was an event that stirred empowering emotions and pride. Besides speeches from elected officials, Gilbert Baker the creator of the Rainbow Flag took to the stage and spoke at the event. Another highlight of the event was the performance of the Youth Pride Chorus. They sang "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper and "Were Not Gonna Take It." Even though by the end of their performance it was raining it certainly didn't dampen the spirits of the many people in attendance.

Experiencing this ceremony today, made me proud to be a part of such a great city with a vibrant and active LGBT Community with an awesome LGBT Community Center. The next time you are in NYC take a stroll down to 208 West 13th street and visit the center with the beautiful Rainbow Flag out front. You can find more information on the center and the latest events there, at http://www.gaycenter.org/ .

The Youth Pride Chorus has their upcoming concert on May 16th at the Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater. Visit http://www.youthpridechorus.org/ for information and tickets.