Thank you all for celebrating, reflecting, and connecting with RiseOut and our fellow advocates this past Pride Month. Take a look at some of the amazing things our community achieved and the important topics we discussed together:

Passing the Gender Recognition Act 
This law was a key focus of our legislative platform. Your advocacy efforts helped to make its passage possible! Now, New York State will reduce the unnecessary barriers and expenses that prevent people from updating state IDs and making legal name changes that affirm their identities and keep them safe. 

Experiencing Black Pride at The Center 
The RiseOut Advocacy Council brought BIPOC members of the community together for a two-day session of sharing space and celebrating ourselves. If you missed the event, don’t sweat it—just check The Center’s YouTube, where we’ll be uploading a recording of the wonderful conversations and workshops!

Raising Awareness of LGBTQ Advocacy Statewide
During June, hundreds of businesses showed their support for LGBTQ rights and amplified RiseOut’s call to action. Keep an eye out for our message of affirmation and equity echoing across the state! 

Our Community Outreach & Organizing Manager Aaron Sanders snapped this picture of a sticker in a local business’ window spreading the word about RiseOut.

And remember, this work doesn’t just happen during Pride Month. To join the year-round fight for true equity and justice, join the RiseOut Action Team. Our next meeting is coming up this Thursday, July 22. New and long-time members alike are always welcome. 

Thanks for all you do,

Trevon Mayers
Senior Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement