ALBANY, N.Y. — June is known as LGBTQ+ pride month, and Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation to make it official in New York State. In addition, LGBTQ+ progress flags will be raised across New York State, and the colors of the pride flag will be illuminated on state landmarks on June 1 and between June 23 and 30.
The City of Buffalo celebrated Pride month with the annual Pride Parade along Elmwood Avnue Sunday. The parade was followed by the Pride Festival at Canalside.
Niagara Falls and Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal are just two of the 15 state landmarks that will be illuminated in rainbow colors.
“Pride Month is a time of celebration and a reminder to continue in our efforts to uplift the rights of the LGBTQ+ community here in New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions deserve to be safe, heard and valued. The State of New York stands with and supports the LGBTQ+ community.”
Governor Hochul made an investment of $33.5 million to increase support for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, $20 million for LGBTQ+ affirming senior housing projects, $12.5 million for the American LGBTQ+ Museum, and $1 million in funding suicide prevention for youths to support TGNCNB New Yorkers, in June 2023.
In 2024, she has begun a process on an Equal Rights Amendment to enshrine in the New York State constitution. There is also a $1 million expansion to the Lorena Borjas Transgender and Non-binary Wellness and Equity Fund in the FY 2025 Budget.
The proclamation states, "We are proud of our statewide population that reflects the diversity of humankind, and of our leadership and respect for all."
To read the proclamation, click here.
2024 Buffalo Pride Parade
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