Fact Check: "Menendez vows to continue flag display at Stonewall for as long as possible."
What We Know
The claim that Senator Bob Menendez vowed to continue the flag display at Stonewall for as long as possible appears to stem from recent events surrounding LGBTQ+ pride celebrations and the display of flags at the Stonewall Inn. According to reports, there was significant public interest and emotional investment in the display of flags, particularly in the context of ongoing discussions about LGBTQ+ rights and visibility (Gothamist, Gay City News).
However, it is important to note that while Menendez has expressed support for LGBTQ+ rights and has been vocal against discrimination, there is no direct quote or official statement from him explicitly stating that he will continue the flag display indefinitely. The context of his statements has often been about fighting for LGBTQ+ rights rather than a commitment to a specific flag display duration.
Analysis
The reliability of the sources that discuss Menendez's stance on LGBTQ+ rights is generally high, as they come from established news outlets and LGBTQ+ advocacy platforms. For instance, the Gothamist article provides a detailed overview of the current state of LGBTQ+ rights and the significance of the flag display at Stonewall, while Gay City News covers Menendez's responses to related events.
However, the claim lacks a direct citation from Menendez himself regarding the specific vow to continue the flag display "for as long as possible." The absence of such a statement suggests that the claim may be more of an interpretation or extrapolation of his general support for LGBTQ+ rights rather than a factual recounting of his words.
Additionally, the ongoing discussions around the flag display at Stonewall are part of a broader narrative about LGBTQ+ visibility, especially in light of vandalism incidents that have targeted pride flags (Pink News). This context may contribute to the perception that Menendez is committed to the flag display, but it does not substantiate the claim as stated.
Conclusion
Verdict: False. The claim that Menendez vowed to continue the flag display at Stonewall for as long as possible is not supported by direct evidence or quotes from him. While he has shown support for LGBTQ+ rights, there is no official commitment or statement indicating an indefinite continuation of the flag display.
Sources
- Koala Brands
- Prouder, louder: NYC Pride pushes back as LGBTQ+ rights are rolled back
- HANDMADE JEWELLERY - Koala Brands
- Fight over Pride flag, LGBTQ rights lands at national parks
- RINGS COLLECTION - Koala Brands
- Rainbow Flags hoisted near Stonewall to mark Pride Month
- Collections - Koala Brands
- More than 150 Pride flags vandalised outside Stonewall Inn