Barack Obama

“ So this week, I'm designating the Stonewall National Monument as the newest addition to America's national parks system. Stonewall will be our first national monument to tell the story of the struggle for LGBT rights. I believe our national parks should reflect the full story of our country—the richness and diversity and uniquely American spirit that has always defined us. That we are stronger together. That out of many, we are one. That's what makes us the greatest nation on earth. And it's what we celebrate at Stonewall—for our generation and for all those who come after us. ”

“ The story of America is a story of progress. It's written by ordinary people who put their shoulders to the wheel of history to make sure that the promise of our founding applies not just to some of us—but to all of us. ”

“ The riots became protests; the protests became a movement; the movement ultimately became an integral part of America.
Over the past seven years, we've seen achievements that would have been unimaginable to the folks who, knowingly or not, started the modern LGBT movement at Stonewall. Today, all Americans are protected by a hate crimes law that includes sexual orientation and gender identity. "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is history. Insurance companies can no longer turn you away because of who you are. ”