Rally at Stonewall National Monument Demands Return of Rainbow Flag Amid Growing Political Tensions

The New York City Council held a significant meeting on February 12, 2026, focusing on the removal of the pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument. Elected officials, including members of the LGBTQIA+ Caucus, organized a rally demanding the flag’s return, asserting its importance for LGBTQ visibility and rights. The discussion highlighted concerns over federal actions perceived as attempts to erase LGBTQ history and identity, particularly during an era of rising political tension.

# What’s happening
– A rally demanded the return of the rainbow flag at Stonewall National Monument.
– Organized by the NYC Council’s LGBTQIA+ Caucus on February 12, 2026.
– The demand follows the flag’s removal by the National Park Service.

# Why it matters
– The LGBTQ community and allies feel directly impacted by the federal government’s actions.
– Restoring the flag supports visibility and representation for LGBTQ individuals in NYC.

# Key details
– Event Date: February 12, 2026.
– Location: Stonewall National Monument, NYC.
– Key organizers: New York City Council LGBTQIA+ Caucus, Stonewall Community Foundation.
– Notable attendees included Assembly Members, City Council members, and the Manhattan Borough President.
– Speeches at the rally underscored the significance of the flag in LGBTQ history.

The rally at Stonewall National Monument showcased a united front against the politically motivated removal of the rainbow flag. Elected officials, community leaders, and activists criticized the action as part of a broader attempt by the federal government to erase LGBTQ identities and history.

Council Member Justin Sanchez, co-chair of the LGBTQIA+ Caucus, emphasized that symbols representing the community should not be dismantled without prior discussion. He stated that the rainbow flag signifies love and acceptance, core values of New York City’s identity. Assembly Member Deborah Glick also articulated the historical significance of the LGBTQ movement, which traces back to the Stonewall riots of 1969.

Participants expressed their determination to keep the pressure on until their demands are met, indicating plans to raise the pride flag again at the monument later that day. This gathering underscored the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights and was a call to action reflecting the community’s resilience and commitment to visibility.

As NYC continues to navigate national political tensions, the rally highlights the local commitment to preserving LGBTQ history and ensuring representation in civic life (Source: https://youtu.be/pEimGLGDK1o).