GANYC Celebrates 50th Anniversary

GANYC celebrated its 50th Anniversary this past Friday evening, in Buttenwieser Hall at 92Y. Thank you to the amazing committee who organized the event, and to all members from the past 50 years who took us from a small organization, founded by German-speaking guides for other multilingual guides, to the biggest tourist guide association on the continent.

The day was officially recognized by the city as Guides Association of New York City Day, via a mayoral proclamation. That proclamation read:
 
"Whereas, Tourism is one of New York's most important industries, bringing in tens of millions of visitors annually. My administration is working hard to boost our storied hospitality sector and the Guides Association of New York City (GANYC) is a trusted ally in this mission. On the occasion of its 50th anniversary, I am pleased to recognize the indelible imprint this outstanding organization has made on the five boroughs.
 
Whereas, Established in 1974, GANYC stands out as one of the oldest and most active guide associations in the United States. All of its members are licensed by the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. This collective represents the interests of guides and empowers them through professional development classes, workshops, and other resources. People planning a trip to New York can search GANYC's website to select a guide, including those who speak a particular language or offer specialized tours focused on a wide range of topics, among them African American history, Irish and Jewish immigrant history, Alexander Hamilton, Central Park, culinary tours, houses of worship, jazz, LGBTQ sites, Chinatown, Little Italy, Harlem, Brooklyn's DUMBO, and more.
 
Whereas, For the past five decades, GANYC's enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides have drawn upon their expertise, passions, and pride as New Yorkers to showcase our city's myriad attractions, such as our renowned museums, iconic architecture, historic landmarks, beautiful parks, excellent restaurants, unmatched nightlife, small markets and shops, and little-known hidden gems. Through its longstanding commitment to highlight our city's rich heritage and remarkable diversity and energy, this wonderful organization has enhanced our tourism landscape and strengthened a vital workforce that captivates visitors near and far. As you celebrate its milestone anniversary, I applaud the organization's leadership and members for all they do to deliver engaging experiences that will inspire visitors to come back soon to discover even more of the Big Apple. I look forward to the many ways the GANYC team will continue to make a positive difference as we unite to # GetStuffDone and promote New York as a premier destination for choice for people across the globe.
 
Now therefore, I, Eric Adams, Mayor of the City of New York, do hereby proclaim Friday, March 1, 2024, in the City of New York as:
 
Guides Association of New York City Day"
 
Here is a video with highlights from the event, including speeches from President Michael Morgenthal, and from Marc Landman who received our annual Lee Gelber Guiding Spirit award:


 

We also thank the following guests at our gala event: Fred Dixon, President & CEO, NYC Tourism + Conventions; and Vilda Vera Mayuga, commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). GANYC thanks the City of New York for recognizing the importance of tour guides as ambassadors to our great city.