Members of the LGBTQ+ community now serve in nearly every level of public office - in city halls and State capitals, Governors’ mansions and the halls of the Congress, and throughout my Administration. Hate Crimes Prevention Act broadened the definition of hate crimes to include crimes motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity. Historic Supreme Court rulings in recent years have struck down regressive laws, affirmed the right to marriage equality, and secured workplace protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in every State and Territory. The LGBTQ+ community in America has achieved remarkable progress since Stonewall. This Pride Month, we recognize the valuable contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals across America, and we reaffirm our commitment to standing in solidarity with LGBTQ+ Americans in their ongoing struggle against discrimination and injustice. Pride is both a jubilant communal celebration of visibility and a personal celebration of self-worth and dignity.
Pride is a time to recall the trials the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) community has endured and to rejoice in the triumphs of trailblazing individuals who have bravely fought - and continue to fight - for full equality. The uprising at the Stonewall Inn in June, 1969, sparked a liberation movement - a call to action that continues to inspire us to live up to our Nation’s promise of equality, liberty, and justice for all.
