A Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Youth of Color in the Bronx

In a 2019 New York Times article, the spotlight is placed on the long-standing need for LGBTQ+ affirming spaces in the Bronx—particularly for young people of color. For years, the borough lacked a dedicated community center, leaving many LGBTQ+ residents without access to culturally competent support, safety, or a place to simply exist as themselves.

Tyanne Walker right, who came out as a lesbian just months ago, has found Destination Tomorrow to be a way for her to connect with others, including Arya Melendez, left, who works for the center. Credit: Brittainy Newman/The New York Times

The article highlights Destination Tomorrow, a Bronx-based LGBTQ community center working to fill that gap. The organization provides programming, resources, and advocacy specifically tailored to LGBTQ+ youth and families of color, many of whom face layered challenges related to housing instability, discrimination, and access to health care. More than just a physical space, Destination Tomorrow represents affirmation, visibility, and belonging in a borough often overlooked in conversations about LGBTQ+ infrastructure.

The piece underscores how community-rooted organizations play a critical role in supporting LGBTQ+ youth—especially Black and Brown youth—by creating environments where they can feel safe, supported, and seen. While progress has been made, the article makes clear that sustained investment and attention are still needed to ensure equity across all five boroughs.

Source:The New York Times — “For Young People of Color, a Safe L.G.B.T.Q. Space in the Bronx” (June 29, 2019) Read the full article on NYTimes.com