June 28, 1969: I was a student in a more peaceful country, oblivious to the struggle of gay men and women, transgender people and all others fighting in the USA over persecution because of their sexual preferences.
In New York, patrons at the Stonewall, namely (and arguably) Stormé DeLarverie, began a standoff with the police which is now known as the Stonewall Riot (or standoff).
Befitting the unstoppable momentum of New Yorkers, (from Wikipedia): “After the Stonewall riots, gays and lesbians in New York City faced gender, race, class, and generational obstacles to becoming a cohesive community. Within six months, two gay activist organizations were formed in New York, concentrating on confrontational tactics, and three newspapers were established to promote rights for gays and lesbians. Within a few years, gay rights organizations were founded across the U.S. and the world. On June 28, 1970, the first gay pride marches took place in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago commemorating the anniversary of the riots.”
Now, this formerly mafioso (Genovese family) owned bar is a hive of entertainment activity: karaoke, bingo, “Big, Gay Happy Hour” (Mon-Fri, 2:30-7pm), dance parties, live singing drag queens, variety shows---the works, and a ‘mecca’ for activists of all stripes.
It’s a mainstream magnet and is now called the Stonewall National Monument.
“The Stonewall Uprising is considered by many to be the catalyst that launched the modern L.G.B.T. civil rights movement,” said President Barack Obama.
New York hosts the largest Pride celebration in the world during June.
Find your way with 304 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Their prices are in keeping with the neighborhood: a plate of two eggs, two pancakes, 'home' fried potatoes and your choice of sausages or bacon, is $12.
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Among its offerings are a $10 breakfast special and its enormous $15 lunchtime hamburger, a price unobtainable anywhere else within walking distance.
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This sun soaked park bench is a destination neighborhood residents know, spending time there in observation. It’s one of the more fabulous NYC stages.
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"Monumental Women" has erected this monument in Central Park, NYC to especially important figures in the United States women's equality movement...
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"Der Krung" in Hell's Kitchen in New York City is by far my favorite Thai place around. One of the best things about it is the $9.75 lunch special...
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Taco toppings include cheese (Cotijam, oaxaca and mozzarella), pineapple, jalapeños and pico de gallo. Norteñas & Cubanos sandwiches are not to be missed.
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"Dinastia" is a great Cuban-Chinese restaurant in New York City. They definitely make soul food here. Consider the squid and rice: it's always good...
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"Studio Museum in Harlem" in New York focuses on local, national and international artists of African descent and other work inspired by black culture...
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Its bright neon sign is easy to spot. Stand Up NY feels like a proper theater as it has a street-level entrance and the programming is mad extensive,
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