National LGBT Museum To Come to NYC

Harry Hay Collection; photo courtesy of ONE Archives at USC Libraries

The Board of Directors of the National LGBT Museum has voted New York City as the new site for the museum.

A number of other sites were considered before NYC was finally chosen. “New York simply makes sense,” said the Board Co-Chair, Tim Gold. “"It is both the site of many pivotal events in the history of the U.S. LGBT civil rights movement as well as a top destination worldwide for LGBT tourists.  We are excited about siting the museum in this great world city."

LGBT activist Kevin Jennings has also been elected as co-chair. “As New York City resident, a historian by training, and a long-time leader in the LGBT movement, Kevin is the perfect partner to help lead the effort to establish this museum in New York City,” Gold added.

Jennings, who serves as the Executive Director of the Arcus Foundation, but is perhaps best known for founding the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), is excited for the new position. "Tim and the Board have done significant work in envisioning what a national LGBT museum might look like and I am excited to join them in helping turn that vision into a reality,” he said.

The Board will now focus on funding, staff, and securing a physical location. "Our dream is to have the museum open in time for the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion in June 2019," said Gold.