June 4, 2025 New York City, NY – In a powerful display of solidarity and defiance, New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently invoked the spirit of Harvey Milk, the pioneering LGBTQ+ rights activist, at a time when federal policies are sparking widespread concern within the community. Adams’s remarks come on the heels of an announcement that Milk’s name, despite his historic legacy as the nation's first openly gay elected official, would be removed from a U.S. Naval ship.
A Message of Safety and Resistance
"I come in the spirit of Harvey Milk. A fighter in San Francisco that’s life was taken away by hateful thought,” Adams declared, drawing a direct parallel between Milk’s struggle and the current climate. He emphasized a resolute message of safety and unwavering support for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers: “We’re sending a strong message that you can be safe. You can ensure you’re going to receive the services that you deserve. And we’re going to fight and stand together, never to go backwards.”
Federal Policies Fueling Community Apprehension
The Mayor's strong stance addresses a growing sentiment of vulnerability among LGBTQ+ individuals, as federal policies under the Trump administration have enacted significant rollbacks. These include a ban on gender transition care for youth and diminished protections across crucial areas like healthcare, housing, and even prisons.
Jamie Luna, a Hell’s Kitchen resident, voiced a common concern: “I feel that people are staying a little silent, and now more than ever, they need to speak up.” This sentiment was echoed by many attendees, who recognized the urgency of the moment. Tim Moss from Washington Heights recalled a similar period of activism: “He had been elected, I think, for three weeks and already I was out at Stonewall protesting. It’s going to be a long four years.”
NYC: A Beacon of Love and Inclusion
Despite the broader concerns, a sense of safety and responsibility pervades New York City. Harlem resident Dawn Richards affirmed the city’s ethos, stating, “We’re a city of love and we’re a city of inclusion.” This commitment to inclusivity was further underscored by Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who spoke at the event and reaffirmed the NYPD’s dedication to safeguarding the LGBTQ+ community, particularly with the Pride March approaching at the end of the month.
