Waving a rainbow flag, Mayor Eric Adams took to the microphone in the grand outdoor space at Gracie Mansion on Tuesday to welcome guests to a reception in honor of Pride Month.

“Your celebration today here, in the people's house, is only one of many," Adams said. "We’re going to be rolling things that are unprecedented, that impacts your community."

Adams spoke passionately to the crowd, saying throughout his career, he has always been an ally. He also assured attendees that he is committed to serving all New Yorkers equally and fairly.

“It’s because my life changed as an 18-year-old boy. I’m still on the journey of living in the spirit of those who died before us, to say we can be in this place,” he said.

The celebration happened as several LGBTQ political groups hosted a counter-event at Stonewall, saying in a statement that they would all be boycotting the mayor's event.

Adams came under fire after appointing Fernando Cabrera and Erick Salgado to positions within his administration after they shared anti-gay commentary. Both have since apologized.

Hundreds of attendees mingled on the mansion grounds against the backdrop of the East River, representing many community groups throughout the boroughs.

“This is the first time they had it since the pandemic," said Connie Pacheco, of Recoveries R Us. "I come out to support, and to network and to, just, you know, just celebrate pride."

Kenny Wagner, who is on the board of Eshel, which works on behalf of Orthodox community members who are gay, said the event was a testament to the achievements of the city's LGBTQ communities.

“This is what success looks like,” Wagner said.

“Pride is about the answer to shame, and the fact that a mayor of New York City is hosting an event at his official residence, with the New York City police department cruiser outside, painted in bright colors, that makes a statement," Wagner added.

Some attendees had a different stance on the mayor's event saying that although more work is needed, it’s a continued step in the right direction.

“In a time right now, it’s all about safety and community, so to come together in that energy is important," said Seann Miley Moore, a guest at the event.