FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

9/18/2023

(White Plains, NY)

As we approach this Friday's Gala on September 22nd, which marks a milestone 40th anniversary for The LOFT LGBTQ+ Community Center, I find myself reflecting on both our hard-fought victories and the challenges that lie ahead.

We've come a long way since 1983, when The LOFT was an all-volunteer organization. Today, we're proud to offer over 100 programs, services, and events that serve thousands in our community and beyond. This year alone, we celebrated our largest Westchester Pride to date with over 7,500 attendees and we look forward to our upcoming Rainbow Rally on National Coming Out Day in October and The Hudson Valley TransForum in November.

This Friday, we will come together in a formal celebration to honor individuals and organizations that have been instrumental in our journey. I am proud to announce that Westchester County Executive George Latimer and The Honorable Mondaire Jones and will both be receiving The Edie Windsor and Thea Speyer Equality Award. Circle Care Center will be honored with The Business Ally Award for their unwavering support and commitment to our community.

While we revel in our accomplishments, the evening will also feature opportunities to support The LOFT through our live auction of fabulous getaways and once-in-a-lifetime experiences and direct support. All proceeds go directly to support our unfunded and underfunded essential free community services, like mental health services, support groups, testing services, and social activities that keep thousands of our community members rooted in connection and support.

As we celebrate, we must also acknowledge the sobering reality that our rights are under direct threat. Hundreds of legislative pieces targeting our community are making their way through state houses, and even our Supreme Court has made veiled threats to our right to marry and exist freely. Our future is far from certain. The clock could easily be turned back if we do not remain vigilant.

It's a testament to our resilience that a center like The LOFT has thrived for 40 years, but it's a milestone that could become increasingly rare if we lose the funding and legal protections that have allowed us to flourish.

This Gala may be sold out, but the fight for our right to exist is far from over. I ask for your continued support as we unite to secure our future, ensuring that The LOFT and other LGBTQ+ centers can celebrate another 40 years and beyond.

Let's raise our glasses high this Friday but keep our resolve to protect our rights even higher.

For those who are unable to attend, you will be missed but you can still be a part of the or mission by donating now.

Yours in Pride,

Judy Troilo