Happy Pride! We have a number of exciting events and ways for you to engage with LGBTQ advocacy this month, but first, we want to celebrate the passage of the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act! As many of you know, this bill was a primary priority for RiseOut over the last few years to address the alarming lack of transparency around hate crimes in New York State. We are so grateful to all of you for the work you did to spread the word—contacting lawmakers, text and phone banking, signing petitions. All of it made a difference. For more details on this wonderful milestone, visit gaycenter.org/hcara. 

Now, on to our June events and actions! 

The early voting period for New York’s primary elections started on Saturday, June 12! You can find your early voting polling location, pledge to vote, and stay up to date with other relevant information about the upcoming elections at gaycenter.org/vote. 

The volunteer arm of RiseOut will come together for a small Pride celebration, combined with a continuation of our efforts to get out the vote as we approach New York State’s primary Election Day on June 22. All are welcome! 

In this virtual gathering, we will share community space and offer several workshops on each day as BIPOC members of the community are highlighted and celebrated with pride! This event is produced by the RiseOut Advocacy Council. 

Trevon Mayers
Senior Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement