New York Governor Cuomo Reveals LGBTQ Monument

New Yorkers were treated to special pride surprise courtesy of New York Governor Cuomo announced the construction of a monument to both the LGBTQ community and the 49 victims of last year's Pulse nightclub shooting. The governor revealed the monument's artist, Anthony Goicolea, and the planned location: Greenwich Village's Hudson River Park. View the design and location here.

"This stunning design complements the landscape and communicates a timeless message of inclusion, and this monument will serve as an enduring symbol of the role New Yorkers play in building a fairer, more just world," Governor Cuomo said. "From Stonewall to marriage equality, New York has always been a beacon for justice and we will never waiver in our commitment to the LGBT community and to creating a more just and inclusive society. This new monument will stand up for those values for generations to come."

"I am honored to join Governor Cuomo and the LGBT Memorial Commission on this important project to remember those who have been victims of hate, violence, and intolerance, while celebrating the beauty of the LGBT community," said the monument's artist. "This monument will serve as a communal space filled with light, color, and hope where the visitors can sit, mourn, love, and remember for years to come.  I am grateful to the Governor and his administration for the opportunity to be a part of this historic moment."

While there has been no announced timeline of the monument's construction, the announcement does come at the end of a solicitation and review process by the LGBT Memorial Commission, which Cuomo helped establish following the Pulse Orlando shooting.