Gay and Lesbian Uptown Manhattan Residents Celebrate Historic New York Same Sex Marriage Victory

When New York legalized same-sex marriage last week, rejoicing erupted at the Stonewall Inn and throughout New York City. But in uptown Manhattan, where being a member of the black or Latino LGBT community has historically been difficult, the new law signified a special cause for celebration.

Five spirited Harlem, East Harlem, Washington Heights and Inwood residents are experiencing these changes firsthand. They have graciously agreed to tell their stories. Each one provides a snapshot — in its own way — of the lives uptown that have been forever altered by the ongoing battle for equality.

Sound-Off: In Love, In the Military & In the Closet

We are in love. In that way, we’re like so many couples who meet, develop a relationship, and get married when the time is right. But for us, getting married in May of this year brought not only happiness, but also a great deal of uncertainty and secrecy. We are lesbians, and one of us is serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. This union would not be the same as that of others.

Marriage Equality: How Blacks Paved the Way

Although some African Americans remain vehemently opposed to same-sex marriage, it was the civil rights movement that paved the way.

Don Lemon Talks Colorism and Coming Out

The anchor lives up to the name of his new memoir, Transparent, in a chat with The Root about the complexion of broadcast TV and being a black gay role model.

‘Black, Gifted and Gay’: A Slide Show

A new book profiles some of the most talented journalists, artists, politicians and athletes in our community. There’s no better time than LGBT Pride Month to highlight a few of them.

Category: Week in Review