A celebration took place on Thursday at Riker’s Island in recognition of Pride Month for staff and inmates who identify as LGBTQ.  

Organizers say this year’s celebration was the biggest one to date since the Department of Correction started hosting the event over a decade ago. Those in attendance say the celebration also provides a safe space for self-expression.  

“It feels great, we can come together during Pride Month and uplift each other,” said Jordan Williams, who emcee’d the event at the Rose M. Singer Center for Women.  

The highlight of the show was a ballroom dance-off and a best dressed competition, where inmates and staff were joined by members of the collective known as Black Trans Femme Artists.  

Performances at the pride celebration event included singing and poetry readings.