Obama protects historic LGBT venue as a national monument

In a sign of respect towards a community that has managed to stand unified in the midst of the horrific shootings in Orlando, President Obama has designated historic LGBT gathering place the Stonewall Inn as a national monument.

During a time when being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender was illegal, and even seen as a mental illness, a police raid on the Stonewall Inn sparked what became a nationwide movement for LGBT rights.

Acknowledging the mistakes of the past, the historic venue has now become the first ever venue protected by the National Parks system that relates to the struggle for equality faced by the LGBT community.

Speaking about the decision, Obama said: "I believe our national parks should reflect the full story of our country – the richness and diversity and uniquely American spirit that has always defined us. That we are stronger together. That out of many, we are one."

Watch the film below to get some education on LGBT rights from Obama himself.

[Via: i-D]