A gay couple was attacked in New York City’s bustling Times Square by a group of four men hurling anti-gay slurs earlier this month. The couple was holding hands and walking through the crowd when they were confronted by the group. The incident left one of the men with a fractured jaw that required surgery, while both are now fearful for their safety. The couple reported that no one in the large crowd attempted to help them during the assault. They have requested anonymity from the media to prevent retribution from their attackers and asked the police to investigate the attack as a hate crime.
Sadly, this is only the latest in a series of attacks on the LGBTQ+ community in the city. On April 5, Rafael Ribot, 44, was beaten and stabbed by a group of people who shouted anti-gay slurs. However, two strangers stopped the attack and saved his life by applying a tourniquet to a large puncture wound in his leg. Last month, multiple suspects were indicted in connection to the deaths of two gay men who were drugged, robbed, and killed last year. Both men’s bank accounts were emptied of about $20,000 after they were found dead.
These incidents highlight the ongoing violence against the LGBTQ+ community in New York City. Despite being known as a progressive city with a thriving LGBTQ+ community, there are still significant issues that must be addressed. Hate crimes, discrimination, and violence against the community continue to occur, and there is a need for action to be taken. City Councilperson Erik Bottcher expressed his anger at the recent attack on social media and called for an end to such hate crimes.
The New York Police Department has confirmed the Times Square attack and is investigating the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made. The LGBTQ+ community is seeking justice for the victims and calling on the authorities to take action against those who commit hate crimes. It is a reminder that everyone must stand together to combat hate and ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity. The LGBTQ+ community deserves to feel safe and secure in their own city, and it is essential to address these issues to make it a reality.