Episode 30- The Legacy of Julio Rivera of Jackson Heights

Episode Summary:
On July 2, 1990, 29-year-old Julio Rivera was brutally murdered in a Jackson Heights schoolyard. His attackers didn’t just take his life—they ignited a movement. What began as a failed police investigation into a so-called “drug-related” killing soon became a flashpoint for LGBTQ+ activism, justice, and legal reform. In this powerful episode, Amanda Morgan explores the life and death of Julio Rivera and the extraordinary community response that led to New York State’s first-ever hate crime convictions.

Julio wasn’t just a victim—he was a vibrant member of his community, a beloved brother and partner, and someone whose story still resonates decades later. From grassroots organizing and candlelight vigils to courtroom justice and the founding of Queens Pride, this episode tells the full story of how one tragedy helped change a city—and a nation.

In This Episode:

• Julio Rivera’s life and background as a proud gay Puerto Rican man from the Bronx.

• The violent attack in Jackson Heights and the lackluster initial police response.

• The efforts of Julio’s partner, Alan Sack, and the Anti-Violence Project to demand justice.

• The rise of the Doc Marten Skinheads and their role in Julio’s murder.

• The legal landmark: New York’s first hate crime convictions.

• The founding of the Queens Pride Parade.

• Reflections on LGBTQ+ rights, resilience, and continued activism in the face of hate.

Notable Sources:

• Testimony and insights from Julio’s family and friends, including Alan Sack and Ted Rivera.

• Archival content from Julio of Jackson Heights documentary and New York Homicide.

• Commentary from Matt Foreman, then-Executive Director of the Anti-Violence Project.

Legacy & Ongoing Impact:

• Julio Rivera Corner memorialized in Jackson Heights in 2012.

• Founding of LGBTQ+ community resources and the annual Queens Pride Parade.

• Continued work by the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (avp.org).

Resources Mentioned:

• National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs: avp.org
  Call or text: 212-714-1141 for help, resources, or support.

• Read more and view photos at: www.nydarksidepodcast.com

• Reach out to Amanda: nydarksidepodcast@gmail.com

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Trigger Warning:
This episode contains graphic descriptions of violence, hate crimes, and trauma involving the LGBTQ+ community. Listener discretion is advised.

Original Publication Date: June 9, 2024

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Fried, J. (1991, November 21). 2 Accomplies Guilty of Murder in Gay Bashing Case in Queens. Retrieved from The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/1991/11/21/nyregion/2-accomplices-guilty-of-murder-in-gay-bashing-case-in-queens.html

Good Caper Content. (2023). Shine a Light on Hate. New York Homicide.

Martinez, A. (2021, June 25). 30 Years Later: Reflections on Julio Rivera’s Life and Death. Retrieved from The Latinx Project: https://www.latinxproject.nyu.edu/intervenxions/nbsp30-years-later-reflections-on-julio-riveras-life-and-death#:~:text=The%20organizing%20that%20local%20LGBT,gay%20life%20and%20social%20service

Miller, J. (2023, August 15). How NYC Man’s 1990 Murder Became State’s First Anti-Gay Hate Crime Conviction. Retrieved from Oxygen True Crime: https://www.oxygen.com/new-york-homicide/crime-news/julio-rivera-murder-hate-crime-conviction-anti-gay

Moore, J. (2023, June 9). Remembering Julio Rivera, whose murder gave rise to Queens Pride Parade to increase visibility in Jackson Heights. Retrieved from CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/julio-rivera-queens-pride-parade/

Shpuntoff, R. (Director). (2016). Julio of Jackson Heights [Motion Picture].

Tracy, M. (2024, April 30). New York State approves bill to broaden hate crimes law. Retrieved from Gay City News: https://gaycitynews.com/new-york-state-approves-bill-broaden-hate-crimes-law/