WHEREAS, our nation was founded on the principal of equal rights for all people, but the fulfillment of this promise has been long in coming for many Americans;

WHEREAS, the historical riot at Stonewall in New York City on June 28, 1969 is considered a turning point for LGBTQ liberation in the United States;

WHEREAS, For more than 50 years, June has been celebrated as LGBTQ+ Pride Month nationwide in honor of the LGBTQ+ citizens that rose up and fought discriminatory laws at Stonewall;

WHEREAS, everyone should be able to live without fear of prejudice, discrimination, violence, and hatred based on race, ethnicity, religion, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, mental or physical disability and to be supported by their peers, educators, and community leaders;

WHEREAS, June has become a nationally recognized moment to celebrate and honor the way LGBTQ+ Americans have overcome adversity and enriched our society;

WHEREAS, Springfield, Oregon celebrates and honors its diverse LGBTQ+ community that includes people of all races, ethnicities, religions, and professions; and

WHEREAS, the City of Springfield strives to be a community where everyone is celebrated for our differences, rather than being limited by what might divide us;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean VanGordon, Mayor of the City of Springfield, hereby proclaim June 2021 to be

LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH

in recognition and celebration of the many ways in which the history and culture of LGBTQ+ Americans, and the advancements, discoveries and achievements of LGBTQ+ Americans, have contributed to the history, culture, and social fabric of the nation and of the City of Springfield.