What does the LGBT community have to be proud of this Pride month?
Steven Florkiewicz
housekeeping manager | Garfield, N.J.
“So many people are coming out in unexpected areas, like professional sports. For many years, homo-sexuality was very taboo in sports. But times are changing. I think it’s great these sports players can finally be themselves, in an environment of their choosing. And they’re leading the way for others to follow their footsteps and come out.”
Steven Florkiewicz
housekeeping manager | Garfield, N.J.
“So many people are coming out in unexpected areas, like professional sports. For many years, homo-sexuality was very taboo in sports. But times are changing. I think it’s great these sports players can finally be themselves, in an environment of their choosing. And they’re leading the way for others to follow their footsteps and come out.”
Roberto Martire
food server | Washington Square West
“The spread of LGBT marriages — not just in this country, but around the world. I recently read about a male couple who had a commitment ceremony in Rome, which is a very conservative area. I found that very encouraging, especially since my parents are from Italy.”
Piero Santini
bartender | Washington Square West
“The Boy Scouts are leaving the city-owned building [this month]. That’s a great victory for everybody who opposes discrim-ination. I have nothing against the Scouts. They are making some changes. But they still have exclusionary policies. They shouldn’t be headquartered in a city building.”
Mark Tucci
hair stylist | Northeast Philadelphia
“More unity within the LGBT community and beyond. A lot of straight allies are supporting the cause. I’m a straight ally. My girlfriend lives with five gay guys. Everyone gets along beautifully. In my opinion, it makes sense to support each other. And it bodes well for the future.”
Newsletter Sign-up