The New York Daily News (28 June 1999, page 22) features a beautiful photo of China Fucito, who headed "Friends of Stonewall Riot Veterans" in the annual Heritage of Pride Parade. An estimated 700,000 viewed our contingent as we marched from 52nd Street downtown to Christopher Street and past the Stonewall Inn.
Dario flirted wildly, Sylvia Rivera high-heeled it dramatically, Stephen waved proudly with arm held high, Bob De Santis and friend Richard represented California nobly, Danny received the oohs and ahs for his looks, Warren irked the cops when he left the Stonewall Chrysler long enough to take two photos upon passing the Stonewall, China and her multi-colored gals was the first to bring the crowd to life with their playfulness, and Creighton Clarke heroically waved from the car as he reminisced about the days when his health was better and he was able to walk the distance.
Our car had STONEWALL RIOT VETERANS signs on the sides, WE ARE YOUR HISTORY on the front, and YOU ARE OUR FUTURE on the back.
As we passed, it was obvious that particularly the young were indelibly impressed by the fact that they were actually seeing people who had rioted at the Stonewall Inn. "Thank you, thank you," was the unrehearsed refrain we heard mile after mile!
Another year, another march!
In the press:
Sylvia Rivera was featured in The New York Times Magazine section (27 June 1999), the end article, complete with photo.
Warren Allen Smith was interviewed by reporter David Kirby (The New York Times, Sunday, 27 June 1999, "City" section, p. 3. The article, "Stonewall Veterans Recall the Outlaw Days," focused mainly on Martin Duberman, Bob Kohler, Jim Fouratt, and Smith. The interview included a photo of Fedora Dorato with Fouratt and Smith.
Many of us were interviewed by Susan from Sweden, PBS, The Times, and other reporters.