Repeated acts of vandalism mark Pride month celebrations at one of the most important LGBTQ+ monuments.
Repeated Vandalism
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For the second year in a row, more than 150 Pride flags hung at the Stonewall National Monument were destroyed.
Extent of the Damage
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In Greenwich Village, someone vandalized more than 160 flags inside and outside the monument.
Trespassing and Vandalism
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The assailant climbed the fence to enter the monument before committing the crime.
No Arrests Yet
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The New York Police Department said that no arrests have been made yet.
Response From NYC Councilmember
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A gay New York City councilmember, Erik Bottcher, took to social media to show the vandalism, stating, “Last night, bigots vandalized the Stonewall National Monument, snapping flag sticks and stealing ¾ of the flags around the perimeter of the park.”
More Than One Incident
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Continuing, “Also someone burned Pride decorations at 22nd St. in Chelsea. Anyone who thinks this will intimidate our community is badly mistaken”.
Strengthening Resolve
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Bottcher reminded the public, “Hateful acts like this merely strengthen our resolve.”
Mayor’s Assurance
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Eric Adams, the New York City Mayor, said, “Our administration wants every member of our LGBTQ+ community to know: we are here for you and our administration will always have your back”.
Commitment to Justice
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Adams continued, “We will work in close coordination with the NYPD to identify and hold accountability whoever committed this heinous act.”
Dedicated to Inclusivity
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Adams, a known supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, joined in celebrating Pride month by hosting an event for LGBTQ+ activists and leaders at his personal residence.
The Historical Significance
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The monument includes Christopher Park and the Stonewall Inn, where the 1969 riots started.
Legacy of the Stonewall Riots
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Many people believe that the Stonewall riots were the start of the gay rights movement, and it is commemorated each year in June for Pride Month.
Similar Incidents
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Before the vandalism took place, over 200 pride flags were stolen from the Rotary Club in Carlisle, Massachusetts.
Early Morning Vandalism
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Before the sun rose on June 1st, 14 Pride banners were destroyed in Poulsbo, Washington.
A Look at Last Year
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Last year, the Pride flags at Christopher Park were also destroyed at the start of Pride month.
Arrests Made
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Upon investigation, the police found and arrested three men for the crime.
Increased Hostility
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This year is already showing increased hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community, with multiple incidents of harassment and hate speech already recorded.
The Startling Statistics
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GLAAD Data from Pride Month in 2023 showed that there were over 145 reported incidents of assault, harassment, and vandalism against the LGBTQ+ community across the country.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / fckncg.