BY: Adal Hussain, Chief Editor, Queens Pride Parade 37th Ave Jackson Heights Queens NY , June 2nd 2024
The parade was founded by Daniel Dromm and co-chaired by Maritza Martinez to raise the visibility of the LGBTQ community in Queens and memorialize Jackson Heights resident Julio Rivera.
Queens also serves as the largest transgender hub in the Western hemisphere and is the most ethnically diverse urban area in the world.
The Queens Pride Parade formed in response to Rivera’s murder and, more directly, to the 1992 homophobic outcry over the inclusion of gay and lesbian content in the Children of the Rainbow curriculum, which was designed to teach children tolerance of all of New York City’s diverse communities.
As a result, former NYC Council Finance Chair Daniel Dromm, who was then a public school teacher in the borough’s Community School District 24 (where the controversy was centered).
Came out as openly gay and decided to counter the ensuing propaganda with a family-friendly celebratory parade that would promote LGBT visibility and pride, and be based in a neighborhood where many closeted gay people lived.
Daniel Dromm, Queens Lesbian & Gay Pride Committee co-chair, 1999.
On November 22, 1992, the initial planning meeting was held in Dromm’s Flushing apartment, and the formation of the Queens Lesbian and Gay Pride Committee (QLGPC) followed soon after at a meeting of Queens Gays and Lesbians United (Q-GLU).
Co-chaired by Dromm and Cuban-born LGBT rights activist Maritza Martinez, QLGPC canvassed neighborhood gay bars for donations and support. Dromm later recalled that some bar owners were resistant, “It was a very quiet lesbian and gay community — a large one but not a very visible one. People were worried that if they became visible, they would pay a price.”
The first Queens Pride Parade and Multicultural Festival took place on Sunday, June 6, 1993, and an estimated 10,000 people attended.
The parade route ran from 89th to 75th Streets along 37th Avenue, which was painted with a lavender line.
The accompanying stage show featured drag queen and transgender performers, who were also pivotal beforehand in helping to raise money and promote the parade at the gay bars where they regularly entertained. Martinez gave a bilingual speech, with the following spoken in Spanish.
This year’s Grand Marshall’s were: Leroy Comrie New York State Senator Leroy Comrie was elected to represent the 14th Senatorial District of Queens (encompassing portions of Jamaica, Cambria Heights, Queens Village, Hollis, St. Albans, Laurelton, Jamaica Estates, Briarwood, Hillcrest and Kew Gardens) in November 2014, officially taking office January 1, 2015.
Billy Green, New York State’s Teacher of the Year Billy Green is a veteran of multiple city schools, current teacher at A. Philip Randolph Campus High School in Manhattan and dedicated community servant both in his native Harlem and in Africa.
Amber Ferrer: Community Advocate, Amber ‘s profound pride in her community extends beyond her honor as a Grand Marshal. Under her leadership, Jackson Heights’ own Friend’s Tavern and Viva La Heights celebrate individuality, inclusivity, and empowerment, providing a safe and uplifting space for all 365 days a year.
Live entertainment was headed by, Carlos Basquiat now has loved the art of dance for as far back as he can remember., Jonte’ Moaning, Who collaborates with Beyoncé, Janet Jackson and BLACKPINK, has immaculate dance technique, flawless fashion serves, and pioneering androgynous vibes in heels, Julius Ferreira better known to the world of nightlife as Julius Caeser was born and raised in Queens, New York. Since young he has always been a social butterfly and so many more entertainers, performing at the stage.
Thousands marched at the 2024, New Queens Pride Parade, other dignitaries in attendance included, New York State Attorney General Letitia James, Queens Borough President, Richard Donovan, Michael Gianaris Senate Deputy Leader. ( D, WF ) 12th Senate District , Jessica Ramos, New York State Senator for District 13, Catalina Cruz, New York’s 39th State Assembly district, Lynn C. Shulman , District 29 – Council Member, Tiffany Caban, Council Member for the 22nd District in Queens and More Politicians in attendance.
Other Dignitaries included: Kenneth Adams president of LaGuardia Community College, Dennis M. Walcott President and CEO of Queens Public Library.
The New Queens Pride and Festival is produced by the LGBT Network.The LGBT Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is a home and voice for LGBT people, their families, and support systems in Long Island and Queens.
Our three LGBT community centers help LGBT people to be themselves, stay healthy, and change the world.
Since 1993, we have been pioneering advocacy and social change to create safe space for LGBT people where they live, learn, work, play, and pray.
See More in our World Liberty TV, LGBTQ+ Channels, Blogs and who is who ? of the LGBTQ+ Elite Photo-Gallery .
The Latino Commission on AIDS will host its annual Cielo Gala on Friday, May 31, 2024, at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, kicking off Pride month and celebrating its 29th year.
Those being honored are Dr. Mitchell Katz, president and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals; former White House Director of National AIDS Policy Harold Philips; screenwriter and producer Steven Canals; and community activist, Valerie Jimenez-Reyes.
This year’s gala will be held in memory of beloved trans advocate and pillar in the New York LGBTQ+ community, Ms. Cecilia Gentili.
“We are humbled and absolutely thrilled to be joined by amazing leaders and advocates in the fight against HIV and AIDS as we continue our mission for creating safe spaces where all Latinx people can access proper healthcare,” said Guillermo Chacon, president of the Latino Commission on AIDS.
“Latinos remain disproportionately affected by HIV, both in terms of new HIV diagnosis and the total number of HIV cases. We must resist the urge of complacency and continue education and prevention efforts in all communities until we eradicate the virus completely!”
The Cielo Gala is an important platform to recognize the work of those who support the Commission’s goals of ending HIV and AIDS and improving overall health outcomes and wellness for the Hispanic/Latinx community.
Dr. Katz is the president and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals, the largest public healthcare system in the United States. Under his leadership, NYC Health + Hospitals has become a beacon of hope for those who have historically faced barriers to quality healthcare.
This year’s Esperanza Award celebrates Dr. Katz’s outstanding dedication to public health, particularly his unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities in New York City.
During his tenure as Director of the Office of National AIDS Policy from June 2021 to January 2024, Mr. Phillips played a pivotal role in shaping the Biden Administration’s domestic HIV/AIDS priorities.
His leadership was instrumental in monitoring and implementing the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, ensuring that America’s response to the epidemic was comprehensive, accelerated, and inclusive of the experiences of those at risk of and living with HIV.
Philips’ invaluable contributions have left a lasting impact on HIV/AIDS advocacy and policy. The Compañero Award serves as a testament to Mr. Phillips’ unwavering commitment, leadership and dedication to ending the HIV epidemic.
In a cultural landscape often marked by silence and stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, Steven Canals emerged as a powerful voice for those affected by the epidemic.
Drawing inspiration from his own experiences and the stories of those within the LGBTQ+ community, Canals has dedicated himself to amplifying narratives that have long been marginalized. Beyond the screen, Canals has consistently leveraged his influence to effect real change.
Canals is being honored with the ILKA Award, named after the late actress and advocate Ilka Tanya Payán, for his tireless efforts in advocating for people living with HIV/AIDS, dismantling stigma, and expanding access to resources.
The award was presented by POSE actor, model, singer, and activist Laith Ashley.
The Denis Deleon Voz the Compromiso Award honors the selflessness and commitment of persons living with HIV and AIDS who dedicate themselves to enlighten the public about the disease and support others who are affected by it.
This year, the Latino Commission on AIDS is honoring Valerie Jimenez-Reyes due to her relentless organizing efforts with Housing Works and activism in the HIV and AIDS space.
After testing positive for HIV in 1989, Jimenez – Reyes has been a devoted advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS, as well as those suffering from homelessness, substance use, and mental health disorders in New York City.
The 2024 Cielo Gala was hosted by Dominic Colón, actor and producer.The night l also featured a fashion show by Brazilian designer and project runway alum, Layana Aguilar.
Three-time Grammy-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra along with DJ Missy B will provide live entertainment during the event.
The event was well attended, close to 300 people were in attendance, people from all over the USA were in attendance at the iconic event space at Cipriani wall Street. See More great videos like these , in in our World Liberty TV, Latino Channels by clicking here.
ICFF is North America’s leading platform for contemporary furnishing design.
With its emphasis on original and sustainable design, ICFF presents a broad range furnishing product for residential, contract and hospitality environments to an audience of 10,000 architects, interior designers, retailers, distributors, developers, and press.
ICFF brings together over 450 established and emerging design brands from more than 35 countries.
On the show floor, attendees will also have opportunities to find inspiration through ICFF Talks, a focused lineup of panel sessions, keynote presentations, and intimate conversations led by the most iconic names in the industry.
Furthermore, opportunities to widen professional networks are boundless. From organic meetings on the show floor to evening events.
Attendees and exhibitors join together to exchange business strategies while strengthening relationships in the design community.
Product categories: Furniture, Lighting, Seating, Outdoor, Contract Furniture, Kitchen & Bath, Wallcoverings, Textiles, Carpets, Flooring and Materials.
Complementing the exhibitors at ICFF and Wanted are content areas and special exhibits that will enrich the visitor experience.
Talks, Be Inspired: All 2024 Talks will take place on the Main Stage, sponsored by Turf, and in The Oasis space.
Featuring a lineup of panels, keynotes, and conversations with leading design experts, these sessions will examine the future of residential and commercial design.
Additional focused conversations will take place across the design fair in new spaces such as Bespoke, Crossroads, Kitchen + Bath. Look Book will feature sessions in collaboration with Dezeen.
The OASIS: The Oasis combines both aesthetic appeal and a deep commitment to sustainability. Rodolfo Agrella’s design brings together elements of tranquility and innovation. With sponsors like EQ3 and Greenwood.
The Oasis provides a platform for exchanging ideas and insights on sustainability and conscious design. From exploring hyper-local recycled materials to understanding the process of becoming B Corp certified, these discussions likely foster a sense of community and collaboration among attendees. The Oasis serves as a hub for inspiration, education, and connection, empowering individuals and businesses to make meaningful contributions to a more sustainable future.
ICFF Editors Awards: The ICFF Editors Awards are one of the design industry’s premier accolades. Judged by editors from invited design media, who tour the trade fair floor and deliberate to determine the best of the best of the year’s product launches.
The awards recognize the top designs in 12 categories: body of work, new designer, furniture, seating, carpet and flooring, lighting, outdoor, materials, wallcoverings, accessories, kitchen and bath and booth.
All category winners will be considered as finalists for Best in Show and recognized during the awards ceremony at ICFF.
In addition to the news relating to the new brand identity, ICFF returns with a program full of events and opportunities for discussion.
Starting from the organizational front: the exhibition space of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center has in fact been optimized for the upcoming edition and includes areas in which you can relax, network and converse.
Furthermore, new areas dedicated to complementary products such as Materials, Outdoor Living and Kitchen & Bath have been created.
The latter also features The Water Studio x Grohe Lounge for dedicated programming. The newly designed spaces will offer activation and communication opportunities for participants.
It was a well-attended show by people from all over the world, see more in our World Liberty TV, Luxury Channels by clicking here.
Iconic NYC Experience Wellness & Travel media events have become the pre-eminent annual wellness media gathering in NYC. Our 2024 NYC event will be hosted again at the stunning The Pierre Hotel.
Where we will entertain 150 top-level press representatives from the health, wellness, beauty and travel sectors and also have 90+ media joining us virtually from around the globe.
Wellness travel agents and spa resort owners are invited to join us virtually throughout the day and in person after the event for our very popular “Wellness After Party”.
It was truly a great event and our 5th appearance at Organic Spa’s Experience Wellness & Travel Media Events in NYC.
Some of the topics covered included: Wellness Around the Globe Symposium & Panel Sessions. Press Conferences & Meetings with Sponsors, Trends in Wellness & Sustainable Travel.
The challenges facing the global wellness tourism industry change with the changing geopolitical landscape, with the changing climate, and with new advances in sustainability. Leaders in our industry discuss the most innovative ways they are pivoting for the good of the planet while at the same time serving consumers.
Keynote Speaker: Wellness in My Words, Nutrition and healthy lifestyle expert for the TODAY show, Joy Bauer welcomes the group with a fresh, personal perspective on what health, happiness and purposeful living means to her in this special keynote address.
Wellness Real Estate & Communities, In the ultimate sign of our times, developers are answering the call for holistically healthy spaces that serve residents of all ages and stages. Who is buying in and what can they expect from these developments?
Conversation Around Clean Beauty, New issues surrounding packaging, production and product efficacy. Icons and industry newcomers alike talk about what lies ahead for this industry.
Keynote Speaker: This is What 100 Looks Like, Organic Spa Media is honored to welcome Deborah Szekely, Founder of Golden Door and Co-Founder of Rancho La Puerta, as a 2024 keynote speaker.
A remarkable centenarian whose life spans over a century of wisdom and unparalleled experiences, she brings us a wealth of insight, illuminating the path towards the future.
Top Trends in Ingredients, Tech & Rituals, Influencers and beauty veterans share the stage to talk about what’s hot, what’s not, and what we can expect in the near future from the beauty and spa industries.
Adventure & Experiential Travel, the global wellness audience wants so much more than a vacation. They want unforgettable experiences, personal connections and lasting impact. How is the industry answering the call?
Menopause & The Microbiome, watch out, menopause is hot again! A deep discussion into the solutions being offered to women as they address their changing hormone balance.
Also a Gourmet wellness lunch prepared by Michael Mignano, executive Chef of Pierre hotel. The food was absolutely out of this world, that was the best experience I had, and I have been covering events at the Pierre hotel for the past twenty years.
About Organic Spa Media, Ltd: Since 2007, Organic Spa Media, Ltd. has been the leading authority in wellness lifestyle and travel. We offer expert advice from sources you can trust, cutting through the growing “noise” in the wellness space to share our insider knowledge from over sixteen years as the paramount media source in natural beauty and wellness.
From clean beauty products to leading spa resorts, OSM offers only the best of the best for the sophisticated wellness consumer. With community engagement initiatives like our LiveWell membership program, Shop Beauty affiliate site and more to come, we encourage our readers to empower and educate themselves to live a curated, conscious lifestyle with intention.
See More in our World Liberty TV, Health, Wellness and Beauty Channels by clicking here.
Actor, advocate and humanitarian Richard Gere inspired the room of developers, architects, investors and wellness professionals to “have the humility to genuinely listen to what a community needs.”
Hint: the grandmas usually know. Putting this into practice with his Sierra A Mar project, they are building a resilient and abundant future for CostAlegre that is healthy and equitable.
We celebrated the life, legacy and 102nd birthday of the “godmother of wellness,” Deborah Szekely, who sat down with Susie Ellis for a talk on “Longevity for Real!”
Delegates leaned in to her wisdom—a living testament to the benefits of well-living—as she shared, “You have to be open to receive magic.”
The leading conference on the Business of Wellness, The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) is an annual four-day meeting where leaders from business, government, academia and science come together to shape the interconnected world of wellness.
A lightning rod for innovative thinking, ground-breaking research and powerful, productive networking, the Summit joins together the leading minds in the business of wellness and prevention across all eleven sectors of the multitrillion dollar wellness economy.
Held in a different location each year, the GWS is the event where relationships are forged, investments are made, and business gets done.
About The Global Wellness Summit: is the premier organization that brings together leaders and visionaries to positively shape the future of the multitrillion global wellness economy.
Its future-focused conference is held at a different global location each year and has traveled to the US, Switzerland, Turkey, Bali, India, Morocco, Mexico, Austria, Italy and Singapore.
GWS also hosts regular virtual gatherings, including Wellness Master Classes, Wellness Sector Spotlights and Investor “Reverse Pitch” events.
The organization’s annual The Future of Wellness global wellness trends report offers expert-based predictions on the future of wellness. The 2023 Summit will be held in St. Andrews, Scotland in November 2024.
It was our first time covering the Global Wellness Summit, people from all over the world in attendance, came to listen as well as speak in many panels. VIP reception was sponsored by Shop Architects, which took place at the Iconic Woolworth Building, one day before the summit. Totally was a great event and look forward to attending next year.
See More in our World Liberty TV, Health, Wellness and Beauty Channels by clicking here.
