The City of Hoboken recognized the Transgender Day of Visibility with officials and advocates participating at a City Hall flag raising this afternoon.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“In Hoboken, we will always stand up for the rights of our transgender community, because trans rights are human rights,” Mayor Ravi Bhalla said in a statement.
“Hoboken is a fair and welcoming City where all are treated equally no matter your gender identity. To all of our trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming community members – we see you, we love you, and we celebrate you on this Transgender Day of Visibility, and every day.”
In December 2020, Bhalla announced that Hoboken achieved a 100% rating from the Human Right’s Campaign’s (HRC) Municipal Equality Index (MEI), an annual examination of policies relating to LGBTQ+ laws and cities in over 500 municipalities across the United States.
Hoboken was one of three municipalities in New Jersey, and one of 94 cities across the country, to earn a perfect HRC score.
“Transgender Day of Visibility is a day to celebrate transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse communities around the world and acknowledge the contributions they have made and the courage it takes to live authentically,” added Hudson Pride Center Executive Director Elizabeth Schedl.
“However even as we celebrate, we must also use today to raise awareness about discrimination and violence that trans folks still face. We are proud to have the City of Hoboken supporting and honoring us!”
Also attending the flag raising today were Councilmembers Phil Cohen and Jim Doyle, Fire Chief Brian Crimmins, city worker Migdalia Pagan-Milano, and Police Officer Dani Simone.
The Hoboken Police Superior Officers Association tweeted that “We stand in solidarity and are inspired by your bravery!” in reference to Simone.
“Across our great Nation, many of us are trying to dismantle hate and violence towards each other in different capacities,” noted Hoboken’s LGBTQ+ Liaison Laura Knittel.
“Diversity, equity and inclusion are strong words that are part of this process and we know this will take time and requires much engagement and patience. So in celebration of Trans Visibility Day 2021, we say to our transgender community, we see you, we hear you, and we’re here for you. Keep letting your light shine. Love is love.”
