The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene on Wednesday kicked off Pride Month, reaffirming its commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ residents and promoting safe celebrations across the city.
The agency said it will participate in Pride events throughout June, including the annual Pride March on June 28, while distributing free safer-sex products, health information and other materials. The effort also aims to connect New Yorkers with health and social services.
“New York City would not be the greatest city in the world without the contributions of countless LGBTQ+ New Yorkers,” Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin said in a statement. “We are committed to ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to the care they need and deserve.”
Health Department staff are scheduled to attend multiple Pride events citywide, including Queens Pride on June 7, Brooklyn Pride on June 13, Bronx Pride on June 20 and Harlem Pride on June 27, among others.
The department also highlighted its recent Transgender, Gender-Nonconforming and Nonbinary Health Summit, held May 21 at the LGBT Community Center in partnership with the Sylvia Rivera Law Project. More than 160 people attended the event, which focused on navigating health and social service systems.
Officials encouraged residents to prioritize their health during Pride Month by staying home if sick, practicing safer sex, and seeking regular testing for HIV and sexually transmitted infections. The department also promoted the use of preventive measures such as PrEP and PEP for HIV, as well as vaccinations for mpox, hepatitis and meningitis.
New Yorkers were also advised to plan ahead if using drugs or alcohol, including avoiding using alone and carrying naloxone to prevent overdose. The agency noted that substance use can increase the risk of heat-related illness during summer events.
The Health Department also emphasized mental health support, encouraging people to connect with community and access free, confidential counseling through the 988 hotline, which is available 24/7 in multiple languages.
Additional LGBTQ+ health resources and services, including provider directories and patient rights information, are available through the NYC Health Department.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
