There are so many reasons to move to New York! Let’s start with the fact that many people regard the Big Apple as the northeastern mecca of gay culture. This name is rightfully deserved, as New York’s legislation is very LGBT friendly. New York has recognized same-sex domestic partnerships since 1998, and has had legal gay marriage since July of 2011. Since 1995, New York has given benefits to same-sex partners of state workers and there is also a law against homosexuality being used for defamation purposes.
New Yorkers can freely change their gender identity, and New York issues new birth certificates to anyone who has undergone sexual reassignment surgery. However, New York doesn’t require a sex change or proof thereof for a new certificate.
New York even has a legitimate law in place against sexual discrimination, called SONDA. The Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act was put into effect in 2003. SONDA directly prohibits discrimination based on sexual identity, perceived sexual orientation, or gender identity in public education, finances, employment, and civil liberties.
Legislation is not the only thing New York has going for it; the state also has a thriving gay scene that is so vibrant that there are multiple gay pride parades throughout the year. These pride parades cater to specific niches within the gay community that may not be as noticeable as well. These niches include African Americans, Latinos, and transgender individuals, each of which get a chance to celebrate themselves without the racial and heteronormative tension that surface in other gay events.
Up until a generation ago, gays were largely confined to the West Village. However, due to evolving social attitudes, gays have spread to every part of New York in huge numbers. For example, Chelsea has nightlife, shopping, and a happening gay scene. But it’s not limited to Chelsea – neighborhoods like Brooklyn Heights, Dumbo, Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, Fort Greene, and more have quite a few LGBT folks living in them.
New York has every type of house you could dream of – old Brownstones, simple apartments, high rises with doormen, condominiums in the suburbs, and even some classic “white picket fence” style houses are all for sale in New York’s boroughs. The prices tend to run a little high, but in this case, you get exactly what you pay for.
New York is the perfect place for any type of LGBT person. There are endless job opportunities in every field for young LGBT folk looking to spread their wings and there’s proactive legislation that defend the rights of LGBT citizens. New York also has some safe neighborhoods like the Upper East Side and great schools for LGBT couples looking to settle. New York’s the entire package for any LGBT individual or couple ready to settle down.
