Pride Month is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots. It is a work in progress to achieve equal opportunity for all individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. In June of 1969 patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City staged an uprising to resist the police harassment and persecution to which those in this community were commonly subjected. It was the beginning of a movement to change discriminatory laws, gain recognition, and fight for the rights of LGBTQ+ Americans. Throughout the 55 years since that initial movement, recognition of Pride Month has become a time to honor the sacrifices and commitments of those who advanced the cause and to acknowledge their struggles and triumphs. Today is better than yesterday in creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. But tomorrow must be better.

Not only during Pride Month, but always, we should keep in mind what is at stake. Struggles such as defeating anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and working to elect individuals in our government that recognize and advance our cause, are still very real today. Growing to ever expand the boundaries in our understanding of who this community must include, and listening generationally to those younger and older and including their experience into our own. But there is also so much joy in the celebration of beauty, resilience, and evolution that LGBTQ+ people showcase every day.

Those in the LGBTQ+ community are an integral part of the values of our Union which celebrate and promote diversity and the strength of embracing different perspectives and experiences. We stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ members and allies, advocating for equal rights, fair treatment, and respect for all individuals.

We will continue to work together to promote inclusivity, challenge discrimination, and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding within our Union and the broader community.

Happy Pride Month to all of our members. Not just this month but always, let us march forward with PRIDE, unity, and a shared commitment to equality and equity for all.