Hello —
On June 28, 1969, the New York Police Department raided the Stonewall Inn, a bar in the city’s Greenwich Village and safe haven for the LGBTQ community.
Several brave Americans, led by Black and brown trans women, stood up to police violence and fought back — causing an uprising at Stonewall and the surrounding area that lasted six days, kickstarting the modern LGBTQ rights movement.
Stonewall is a story of those who came before us and put everything on the line in a demand to be treated with dignity and respect. Those who bravely stood up and spoke out so that others wouldn’t have to live in fear or silence.
I remain inspired by the courage of that moment and the uprising that took place. Our progress was made possible by the Black and brown trans activists who have always been on the frontlines of the fight for LGBTQ rights. We must never forget that.
When I look back at Stonewall, I am awestruck by what we have achieved over the last 52 years. But as Republicans continue to attack LGBTQ rights — especially targeting trans youth — it’s clear there is so much more work to be done.
We must direct our attention to passing the Equality Act — a critical step toward ending discrimination against LGBTQ Americans in all areas of life and ensuring that we give the next generation a country that is more equal, not less.
This Pride Month, I’m asking you to join our grassroots team as we work to ensure our hard-fought victories are not undone. Sign your name to demand the Senate pass the Equality Act.
As we celebrate the courage that took place 52 years ago, let us take the next step forward in the march for justice and freedom for every LGBTQ American — especially Black and brown trans women.
We have real power because of those who came before us, refusing to back down and be silenced. Now, it’s our time. So, let’s all remember those at Stonewall as we work to pass the Equality Act.
Onward.
— Tammy
