Governor Hochul Directs Division of Human Rights to Investigate Reports of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias at Long Island Libraries

"I am horrified by reports that the Smithtown Library Board has decided to remove any LGBTQ+ related books from displays in the children's sections of its libraries and have directed the New York State Division of Human Rights to launch an investigation immediately.

"Public places are prohibited by law from engaging in discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Everyone - and particularly our state's young people - deserves to feel welcome at the library. For many LGBTQ+ kids, libraries are a place of refuge and information where they can be welcomed and affirmed for who they are.

"We will not tolerate a 'Don't Say Gay' philosophy taking root in our state. I look forward to seeing the Division of Human Rights take prompt action to investigate these reports."