A subway station in New York City is set to be renamed in honor of the historic Stonewall riots, a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The state Legislature recently passed a bill directing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to change the name of the Christopher Street-Sheridan Square subway station in Greenwich Village to the Christopher Street-Stonewall National Monument Station.
The proposed name change aims to commemorate the significant role of the Stonewall riots in shaping the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. The bill, sponsored by a Manhattan Democrat, is now awaiting approval from Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul.
The Stonewall riots, which took place at the Stonewall Inn on June 28, 1969, were a catalyst for LGBTQ+ activism in the United States. The police raid on the inn sparked a riot and subsequent protests, highlighting the discrimination and persecution faced by the LGBTQ+ community at the time.
During that era, individuals could be arrested for displaying same-sex affection or dressing in a manner considered gender-nonconforming. Establishments that served LGBTQ+ patrons risked losing their liquor licenses, contributing to the marginalization of the community.
Today, the Stonewall Inn holds a special place in LGBTQ+ history and is designated as a National Historic Landmark. Each June, the site attracts visitors who come to pay tribute to the events that unfolded there and to participate in LGBTQ+ pride celebrations held in New York and other cities.
Furthermore, plans are underway to open the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center adjacent to the inn. This center, operated by the National Park Service, will be the first of its kind dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the LGBTQ+ community.
