Queerguru’s Brit Editor like to remind us (all too frequently) that some of the best culture started in London. (Forgetting the fact they gave the world The Apprentice TV Show that helped launch you know who). However OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK that creates one unique day that allows you access to behind the scenes at iconic buildings and to organizations that are not regularly open to the public, was originally a Brit idea
The aim of OHNY is to ensure every New Yorker can enjoy full access to the greatest city in the world. Its a fabulous ambition that has succeeded so well, that they had to introduce lotteries for access to some of the buildings that get over-subscribed.
OHNY was founded in a very significant time in NY’s history in the wake of 9/11, when much of the city was closed off due to increased security, Offering an insider’s look at the forces that shape the city, OHNY promotes a deeper understanding of how the city functions and whom it serves. The theory of change guiding our work is that an informed public fosters greater civic participation, which in turn catalyzes an open city.
There are now 276 places on OHNY’s list, and for the majority no tickets are required. However, some require tickets for space or security reasons, : the ticket office opened on October 8 at 11 am.
There are places on the list that are of particular interest to the queer community:
Spirit and Spite at Stonewall National Monument Tour
Greenwich Village, Manhattan In June 1969, the Stonewall Uprising sparked new momentum for the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. Join a National Park Ranger on a tour exploring this history and legacy through the lens of spirit and spite—a positively transformative motivator for the LGBTQ+ community! The tours are on October 19th and 20th and do require tickets which are available HERE
Alice Austen House: Queer Ecologies Garden
Rosebank, Staten Island
Alice Austen House and its surrounding park and gardens are a nationally designated site of LGBTQ+ significance, having been cared for for nearly 30 years by Alice and her loving partner, Gertrude Tate. With the distinct viewpoint that gardens have long been spaces of acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community, we have created this garden to serve as a gathering place that fosters understanding.
This garden program provides a museum-based Gay Straight Alliance meeting hub, bringing together GSA students from across Staten Island and building upon our existing LGBTQ+ Photographic Storytelling programs. The aim is to create pathways for students to learn about careers in horticulture, parks, and museums in a safe space with their peers.
2 Hylan Boulevard Staten Island, NY, 10305 Sun, October 20th, 2024. 12:00pm — 4:00pm
FULL DETAILS OF THE ENTIRE WEEKEND https://ohny.org/weekend/
Labels: 2024, iconic buildings, Open House New York, public access
