As New York City rejoiced the passage of the Marriage Equality Act, the Center, along with nearly 300 supporters and community members, took to the streets to march in one of most vibrant and energetic Pride parades the city has ever seen. The marchers were a diverse group of people representing many of the Center’s life-changing programs, including the Gender Identity Project, the Immigration Social Action Group, the Youth Enrichment Service (YES) Program, and individuals and families who support the Center and our mission.

Photo by Jason Letkiewicz

Along the parade route marchers danced and waved pom-pons to music from the Center’s float , handed out safe sex kits and greeted enthusiastic crowds from midtown down to the Village. Center Recovery Program participants held a sign which read: “Sober is Better,” and our dynamic group of marchers was rounded out by LGBT families with strollers at the end of the Center’s contingent.

Photo by Rob Zukowski

According to Cultural Programs Officer Yojani Hernandez, who helped staff the march, “It was great to see young people in that moment be proud of who they are, part of the legacy that was left by those who marched before us.” The Center would like to thank Anthony Shimek, Volunteer Coordinator, who organized and executed the Center’s presence in the parade, and all who supported the Center and came out to march on such a momentous occasion. We are already looking forward to next year’s Pride, but in the meantime we hope to see you at the Center!