Bold Leadership. Brisport's unapologetic message sends a powerful signal of support to LGBTQ youth and communities facing increasing hostility nationwide.
47D AGOUSU.S. SENATOR JABARI BRISPORTLGBTQ+
Brisport Tells Anti-Gay "Haters" to "Give Up" in Pride Speech
What's the gist?
Brooklyn State Senator Jabari Brisport delivered a Pride Month speech telling anti-LGBTQ "haters" to give up, declaring queer resilience an "art form" passed down through generations.
Context
The state Senate passed its annual LGBTQIA+ Pride Month resolution. Brisport, the first openly-gay person of color in the state Senate, honored queer activists from William Dorsey Swann to Stonewall leaders.
Positive takes
Historical Context. His speech connected contemporary struggles to centuries of queer activism, honoring pioneers like drag queen William Dorsey Swann and Stonewall leaders.
Authentic Representation. As the first openly-gay person of color in the state Senate, Brisport brings vital lived experience to legislative discussions about LGBTQ rights.
Negative takes
Negates progress. By drawing attention to the 'haters' Brisport is also not acknowledging the progress LGBTQ+ advocates have made to be included in legal protections and inclusion in mainstream culture
Preaches to the choir. By delivering this speech on the Senate floor to fellow lawmakers, Brisport is largely speaking to an audience that already agrees with him.
Oversimplifies opposition motives. Brisport challenges anti-gay leaders by asking what they would gain from erasing queer people, but framing all opposition as simple "hate" dismisses the range of cultural, religious, and political motivations that drive anti-LGBTQ+ policy.
— by VoiceWhat's Voice? Read this.
News sources
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Kirstyn Brendlen · amNY · June 4, 2026
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