New York Senator Ruben Diaz has denied
reports that he's furious over a gay rights group setting up shop in
a building named after him.
On Sunday, the New
York Post quoted an unnamed source as saying that Diaz was
“furious” that Bronx Pride was relocating inside the Rev. Ruben
Diaz Gardens, a 12-story, 111-unit mixed use building funded by the
New York City Housing and Development Corporation and backed by
Diaz's non-profit.
Diaz, a Pentecostal minister,
vehemently opposed Governor Andrew Cuomo's plan to make New York the
sixth state to legalize gay marriage and was the only Democrat in the
Senate to vote against the measure in June.
In a statement released on Monday, Diaz
said Bronx Pride's move honored his work.
“I was surprised to read today's New
York Post's sensational story by Candice Giove because she
completely disregarded what I specifically said to her about Bronx
Pride moving in to the Rev. Ruben Diaz Gardens building,” Diaz
said.
“I would like everyone to know that I
am honored that Bronx Pride is coming to the Rev Ruben Diaz Gardens.
They honor me by recognizing my good work on behalf of the community.
When everyone abandoned the Bronx, I worked hard to bring jobs,
housing and programs that benefit our community. I am glad that
Bronx Pride is taking advantage of these opportunities and I will
continue to invite everyone to come to the Bronx because the Bronx is
open for business.”