As Joe Biden took to the stage at an evening fundraiser in Manhattan, he emphasized his differences with former President Trump, who he said posed a threat to the rights achieved by the LGBTQ+ community. With energetic passion, Biden stressed that he would continue to defend their freedoms and not be swayed by those seeking to roll back progress.
The event was held at the Stonewall visitor center in New York’s Greenwich Village, which commemorates the site of a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history – the 1969 riots at the original Stonewall Inn. The new $3.2 million visitor center is overseen by the National Park Service and Pride Live, with private donations making up most of its funding.
Biden’s words were met with applause from attendees, including members of Congress and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. His visit to the site was a powerful reminder that progress requires continued vigilance and commitment to protecting the gains made in recent decades.
The Stonewall riots marked a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality, sparking protests and clashes with police that eventually led to a new wave of activism demanding recognition and rights. Today, Pride marches are held annually on June 28th – the anniversary of those fateful events.
As Biden spoke about his commitment to defending freedom and progress, he was joined by several members of Congress who have been champions for LGBTQ+ rights. Together, they reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring that all individuals can live without fear or discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The visit came as a reminder that the fight for equality is ongoing – with new challenges emerging even as progress is made. But it also underscored the power of collective action and perseverance in achieving lasting change. As Biden left the stage, he was met with cheers and applause from those who have fought tirelessly to ensure that all individuals can live their lives without fear or prejudice.
In a world where freedom is not always guaranteed, events like this serve as powerful reminders of our shared commitment to protecting the rights of all people – regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.