Diaz Sr. says he's honored LGBT group is moving into his building

Despite claims in a NY Post article Sunday that he's "hot and bothered" by LGBT organization Bronx Pride moving into a building that holds his namesake, State Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz Sr. says he's honored that they would use Rev. Ruben Diaz Gardens for their offices.

From Candice Giove, our former coworker and current Post scribe:

The Bronx’s largest gay-rights group is unfurling its rainbow flag tomorrow at its new headquarters -- ironically located in a building funded by, and named after, the city’s No. 1 gay-marriage opponent, state Sen. Ruben Diaz.

It’s left Diaz, who’s also an ordained minister, hot and bothered, sources said.

But Diaz, who staunchly opposed passing marriage equality in the state legislature this year, released a statement saying this is untrue, and he is in fact glad that Bronx Pride is in his building. 

To contradict Ms. Giove’s reporting and to repeat what I told her during her interview of me last week, 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.

Regardless of if Diaz is or isn't upset about it, Bronx Pride's executive director, Dirk McCall, is happy this move can be seen a rallying cry for his community.

“I hope people say, ‘Wow, they’re reclaiming this building for the LGBT community!’ ” McCall told the Post. “We’re very excited.”

McCall went on to say that it's just a coincidence that they happened to move into that building.

Diaz’s namesake 111-unit building on Kelly Street and Westchester Avenue opened two years ago, funded by the city Housing and Development Corp. and backed by the lawmaker’s nonprofit.