The historic Stonewall Inn in New York City is known as the site where the modern gay rights movement was born. Now, in a unanimous vote, the Greenwich Village bar was recognized as a historical landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, according to the Associated Press.
"New York City's greatness lies in its inclusivity and diversity," said Meenakshi Srinivasan, chairwoman of the commission. "The events at Stonewall were a turning point in the LGBT rights movement and in the history of our nation."
The announcement comes just days before NYC's famed Pride Rally. It is the first time the city designated a landmark primarily based for its significance to LGBT history, according to CNN. "This is such a win for LGBT New Yorkers and the community around the world," said Stonewall Inn co-owner Stacy Lentz. "It's a symbol of fighting against repression and we are thrilled the building will be preserved for generations to come."
On June 28, 1969, the Stonewall Inn was raided by police as part of a crackdown of gay clubs, reported the New York Times. The streets came alive as members of the gay community protested for the next couple of days. Those protests are credited with starting gay activism in globally.
The first Pride Rally occurred one month after the Stonewall riots and will mark its 45th anniversary this weekend. The organizers of this year's parade are expecting a huge turnout, especially as the Supreme Court's decision on marriage equality awaits, said James Fallarino, Heritage of Pride's media director, according to CNN.
