Pride Month is celebrated throughout June to coincide with the gay liberation movement
||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||
During the May 26 meeting, the County Council issued a proclamation recognizing June as Pride Month in San Juan County. The proclamation, written alongside members of the LGBTQIA+ community, acknowledges that LGBTQIA+ folks have lived in the San Juan Islands since time immemorial and celebrates their valuable contributions in areas such as education, arts, healthcare, small business, government agencies, environmental advocacy, community organizing, and more.
“San Juan County is committed to being a place that is safe, respectful and supportive of all members of the LGBTQIA+ community. While Pride Month is a designated month of recognition, a healthy community is one that lives and defends these values every day.” said Council Chair Justin Paulsen.
Representatives from San Juan Island Pride Foundation and Orcas Pride spoke on behalf of Pride Month during the meeting, highlighting current events and resources available to LGBTQIA+ community members and allies, as well as future plans and goals for engagement.
“We at the San Juan Island Pride Foundation are grateful for the Council’s words of support for 2SLGBTQIA+ residents and for acknowledging the eradication of civil rights at all levels for 2SLGBTQIA+people, especially trans individuals…we recognize that in a time where many local governments are backing out of their commitment to protect 2SLGBTQIA+ residents, we are lucky to live in a county where the Council has declared support for their 2SLGBTQIA+ rights,” said San Juan Island Pride Foundation speaker Dr. Jessa Madosky.
The proclamation closes with a call to action, encouraging residents, businesses, and visitors to recognize Pride Month by seeking education and information, acknowledging the broad history and impact of LGBTQIA+ county residents, and engaging in ongoing dialogue with family, friends, and neighbors in an effort to create and sustain an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
LGBTQIA+ Community in San Juan County
San Juan County is proud to celebrate LGBTQIA+ culture and identities across our islands, strengthening our sense of community, belonging, and safety for all residents and visitors. We honor the ongoing fight against discrimination and recognize the invaluable contributions our LGBTQIA+ community members make to the vitality and resilience of our county.
Local Resources for the LGBTQIA+ Community include:
Learn more on the County’s website: https://www.sanjuancountywa.
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
Leave A Comment