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10/24/2010 10:44 AM

Group Denounces Recent Attacks On Gay NYers

By: NY1 News

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In the wake of a recent spike in anti-gay attacks around the city, members and supporters of the LGBT community gathered Saturday night for a candlelight vigil and rally in the West Village.

The event was organized by the United for Christopher Street Coalition, which was formed by business owners and area residents.

Participants who attended the vigil say the recent bias attacks have affected the entire community.

"We've just decided that unless we make an effort to take back our community then we're going to fall prey to predators who mean us harm," said one vigil attendee.

"The violence has to stop. It has to come to an end for all reasons," said another.

"I hope that we can get rid of the riff raff on Christopher Street and take it back, it's sad," said a third.

The rally comes on the heels of several recent attacks, including one at the Stonewall Inn, where two men allegedly beat a man in the bathroom while making anti-gay remarks.