'When a person finds the courage and strength to love and live their truth, love and support must be available to and for them. Additionally, Muñoz has been an outspoken advocate for many important causes, such as working to combat the stigma associated with HIV through his candor about his own diagnosis, fighting for the rights of the LGBTQ community, and acting as an ambassador for STOMP Out Bullying. Muñoz is the son of a Puerto Rican family and grew up in the Linden Projects in East New York, Brooklyn. This year, Mayor Bill de Blasio and First Lady Chirlane McCray honored actor and singer Javier Muñoz, best known for his performances on Broadway as Usnavi in the 2008 musical In the Heights and as Alexander Hamilton in the 2015 musical Hamilton.
We have to stand united against the forces of hatred, homophobia, and transphobia, and their enablers at the highest level of government,' said First Lady Chirlane McCray. 'We've come a long way since the Stonewall riots ignited a movement, but our push for progress if far from over. In honor of this celebration and the many contributions the LGBTQ community has made for New York City, Mayor de Blasio and First Lady Chirlane McCray host the LGBTQ Pride Reception at Gracie Mansion. Every year, the city comes together to celebrate Pride Month in June.
