Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated each year in June to honors the 1969 Stonewall riots. LGBTQ Pride celebrations throughout the world today celebrate self and societal acceptance, equality, and continued work toward further equity. 2020 marks the 51st anniversary of the Stonewall riots, and the first year the City of Auburn will fly the Pride Flag over city hall.
“While I think it’s long overdue,” said Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus, “I am proud that Auburn is now flying the Pride flag at city hall and that my daughter Lucky was there with me as we raised it and declared June as TheLGBTQ+ Month in Auburn.”
Backus and her daughter, Lucky, raised the flag together on June 2. Backus also read a proclamation, declaring June LGBTQ+ Pride month in the City of Auburn.
Washington State Senator Claire Wilson (D-Federal Way, 30th LD) also shared her thoughts on the Pride Flag being raised in Auburn, and Federal Way, “the Stonewall Riots started when the LGBTQ community no longer felt they could be oppressed, victimized, and silenced any longer. They rose up in protest. Today we stand with our black and brown brothers, sisters, and siblings in support. Our job as a community is to welcome, care for, and understand who our neighbors are.”
“Raising the flag in both Federal Way and Auburn is an opportunity,” continued Wilson. “I think for the first time, for many members of the community to feel like they are being welcomed and see themselves represented. Our community doesn’t have a long history of understanding the many ways individuals walk the world today. Raising the flag is not a signal we’re deteriorating as a society, but a signal that we understand we all come from different places and have different perspectives and experiences. Raising the flag during Pride month highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating the substantial gains that have been achieved for the LGTBQ community. It also recognizes that the community needs to continue to work together to promote equal rights, regardless of orientation or identity. I am proud to represent the 30th LD where all individuals are seen, valued, and welcomed.”
The COVID-19 pandemic saw the cancellation of many pride celebrations, including the first pride celebration planned for neighboring Federal Way.
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