Legislators in New York state have passed a bill to rename a subway stop in Manhattan after the historic Stonewall riots, which started the LGBTQ+ rights movement of today. In recognition of the critical role played by the Stonewall Rebellion of 1969, the Greenwich Village station that is now known as Christopher Street-Sheridan Square will shortly be renamed Christopher Street-Stonewall National Monument.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is required by law to alter its name after the measure was approved by the New York State Legislature on Wednesday. The bill’s proponent, Manhattan Democrat, and State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, stressed the symbolic significance of the rebranding. Once the Senate gave its approval, Hoylman-Sigal took to social media to express her hope that the change would serve as a reminder of the current LGBTQ civil rights movement’s history and a call to action for more justice and equality in New York.
Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul will examine the measure in the next few days before signing it into law. Her blessing would finalize the name, making it such that one of the most famous cities in the world pays homage to the Stonewall riots.
After a police raid on June 28, 1969, caused a riot and days of protests, the Stonewall Inn became a symbol of defiance and unity. The struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in America reached a turning point with these events. Back then, businesses that served LGBTQ+ customers ran the danger of having their liquor licenses revoked, and public demonstrations of homosexual love or gender non-conformity could lead to incarceration.
As a National Historic Landmark, the Stonewall Inn now welcomes tourists from all over the globe, particularly during the Pride festivities in June. Part of a larger movement to recognize and protect LGBTQ+ heritage is this suggested rebranding. The renaming of the subway station is only the beginning. Right next door, the National Park Service will establish its first facility devoted to LGBTQ+ history, the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Facility.
Educating future generations about the continuing battle for freedom and justice, the Christopher Street-Stonewall National Monument Station will also serve as a daily reminder of the hardships and accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ community. Considering the ongoing effects of the Stonewall riots, this action reflects the city’s and country’s dedication to honoring LGBTQ+ heritage.
