New York City

Tish James hosts Drag Story Hour Read-A-Thon to support LGBTQ+ community

March 23, 2023 Robert Abruzzese
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CITYWIDE — Attorney General Letitia James, along with a coalition of advocacy organizations and elected leaders, hosted a Drag Story Hour Read-A-Thon in support of the LGBTQ+ community for families across New York City on Sunday.

Approximately 200 participants attended the event, which took place at The Center in Manhattan and featured four consecutive Story Hours led by Drag Kings, Queens, and Royalty from Drag Story Hour NYC.

The Drag Story Hour took place on Sunday at The Center in Manhattan.

In attendance were local elected representatives, including Assemblymembers Tony Simone and Grace Lee, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, and Council Members Erik Bottcher, Shekar Krishnan and Crystal Hudson.

“The recent rise in anti-LGBTQ+ protests, rhetoric and policies has left New Yorkers — myself included — devastated and disappointed. But I know better than anyone that when the choice is between love and hate, between joy and venom, New Yorkers will always choose love, and New Yorkers will always choose joy,” said Attorney General James. “I am proud to have been joined by my colleagues in advocacy and government today in celebration of the love, joy, and family fun that Drag Story Hour brings to our communities. Hate has no home in New York, and I will always fight to ensure our LGBTQ+ siblings’ rights are upheld and defended.”

“Drag Story Hour is a fun opportunity to get our kids excited about reading,” James said. “Thank you to all the families who came out today for our incredible read-a-thon.”

The Drag Story Hour Read-A-Thon aimed to combat hate and counter the spread of misinformation that has contributed to increased homophobic protests, fearmongering and harassment directed at the LGBTQ+ community, advocates and leaders, the AG said. The event served as a message that everyone, regardless of sexuality, gender, race, or socioeconomic status, is celebrated, protected and welcomed in New York.

The Read-A-Thon was made possible by co-sponsors Drag Story Hour, The Center, the Pride Center of Staten Island, Destination Tomorrow, the New York Public Library, the Brooklyn Public Library, and the Queens Public Library.

Established in response to the AIDS crisis in 1983, New York City’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center has evolved to offer services that empower individuals to lead healthy, successful lives. The Center currently provides recovery and wellness programs, economic advancement initiatives, family and youth support, advocacy, arts and cultural events, and space for community organizing and connection, both in-person and virtually. To learn more, visit gaycenter.org.

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