New York Landmarks Lit for Transgender Day of Visibility
"New York is proud to be the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement," said Governor Kathy Hochul.
In recognition of Transgender Day of Visibility, New York State landmarks were illuminated in the colors of the transgender pride flag—pink, white, and blue—yesterday evening. Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation marking the observance, intended to honor transgender individuals across New York and the nation.
Fifteen landmarks statewide participated in the tribute, including Niagara Falls, One World Trade Center, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, and Grand Central Terminal. Select locations such as the Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal and Moynihan Train Hall will feature pink lighting as part of the symbolic gesture.
"New York is proud to be the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement," said Hochul, referencing early LGBTQ+ activists such as Marsha P. Johnson. The governor emphasized the state's ongoing support for the transgender community amid what she described as "harmful policies and rhetoric" at the federal level.
Acting Commissioner Denise Miranda of the New York State Division of Human Rights said the event underscored the state's commitment to upholding anti-discrimination protections for transgender residents. “Every New Yorker deserves to live a life of respect and dignity,” Miranda said in a statement, adding that the state remains vigilant in enforcing human rights laws.
Transgender Day of Visibility is observed annually on March 31.