STONEWALL 50 – NYC WORLD PRIDE

The 1960’s were not welcoming time for LGBT Americans. Solicitation of homosexual relations was illegal in New York City, and there was a criminal statute allowing police to arrest people not wearing at least three “gender-appropriate” articles of clothing. LGBT individuals flocked to gay bars and clubs as refuge. Establishments serving alcohol were raided and closed as “disorderly.” While these regulations were overturned in 1966 and LGBT patrons could now be served alcohol, gay behavior in public was still illegal, so police harassment of gay bars continued.

The Stonewall Inn was purchased in 1966 by the Genovese crime family, who controlled most Greenwich Village gay bars. Not with standing the Mafia connections and poor conditions, the Stonewall Inn became an important Greenwich Village institution. On June 28, 1969, New York City Police raided the Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street, which sparked a riot among bar patrons and neighborhood residents, lasting six days. The riot served as the catalyst for the gay rights movement.

On this 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, New York City becomes the host of WorldPride 2019, comprised of more than 25 different events during the full month of June, 2019.

Prolific entertainer and internationally-recognized humanitarian, Whoopi Goldberg, will host the Opening Ceremony, featuring a growing medley of acclaimed speakers and performers. Cyndi Lauper, iconic performer for the LGBTQ community and New Yorkers alike, leads the initial release of the talent line-up.

“I’ve been a longtime advocate of the LGBTQIA+ community and this year marks a pivotal moment within our storied history and fight for equality,” said Goldberg. “Hosting a WorldPride event is an absolute honor and I am delighted be a part of the Opening Ceremony in June.”

As a lifelong activist, Cyndi Lauper champions the underdog – especially women, people living with HIV/AIDS and the LGBTQIA+ community. “I am thrilled to be a part of the WorldPride Opening Ceremony,” said Lauper. “I can’t wait to celebrate with my LGBTQIA+ friends and family from across the world.”

Ciara, a Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter, producer, model and actress; and Todrick Hall, a multi-talented singer, rapper, actor, director, and choreographer, are also part of the talented lineup.

“In celebration of WorldPride 2019 | Stonewall 50, NYC Pride is dedicated to broadening its commitment to serving the LGBTQIA+ community,” said Chris Frederick, Executive Director of NYC Pride, “Every ticket sold to this 10,000-seat event is supporting some of the best service and advocacy work being done in our community by Ali Forney Center, Immigration Equality and SAGE.”

The Ali Forney Center is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive agency dedicated to LGBTQ homeless youth – assisting nearly 1,800 young people per year. SAGE is the world’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of older LGBT people, offering supportive services and consumer resources. Immigration Equality is the nation’s leading LGBTQ immigrant rights organization, representing and advocating for people from around the world fleeing violence, abuse and persecution because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or HIV status.

For tickets and more information, visit www.worldpride.org.