STATEWIDE — On Friday, June 4, Governor Ralph Northam declared June as Pride Month in Virginia in recognition and appreciation of the Commonwealth’s LGBTQ+ communities.
Each June, Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Inn riots in New York City, which began on June 28, 1969. The following year, gay activists in the city organized the Christopher Street Liberation March. Activists in other major cities were inspired and organized their own parades, with the movement soon spreading across the globe.
Today, Pride Month is recognized as a time to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, support civil rights, activism and to uplift LGBTQ+ voices.
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“This Pride Month, we are reminded of the resilience of LGBTQ+ Americans and their fight for inclusion and acceptance and equal access and opportunities,” said Gov. Northam. “As we celebrate the diversity of our Commonwealth, we also recognize the contributions LGBTQ+ communities in making Virginia a welcoming and affirming place.”
The Governor is encouraging Virginians to participate in a variety of events hosted by his administration as well as community organizations. A list of events hosted by Gov. Northam’s administration can be found by clicking here.
During a recent General Assembly session, Gov. Northam signed legislation that removed the “panic defense” from legal measures, as it was discriminatory towards the LGBTQ+ community. He has also approved legislation which will ensure access equity for aging services and to make it easier for LGBTQ+ couples who are unwed to adopt. These measures go into effect July 1, 2021.
To watch Gov. Northam’s address, click on the video below:
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