Wasserman Schultz on LGBTQ Pride Month

Sunrise, Fla., June 1, 2020 As our nation once again finds itself confronting the deadly consequences of racism and police brutality in our society, it is important that we take a moment to remember the roots of the LGBTQ movement. Remember Stonewall, Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera and Stormé DeLarverie. And thank Miss Major.

Each June, we celebrate Pride Month by honoring the LGBTQ community. We take time to acknowledge both the distance we have traveled and how much further we still have to go on the quest for equality. June is also a time for LGBTQ Americans to rejoice in their identities, share their stories, and show the world that being a member of the LGBTQ community is something to celebrate.

This year, Pride Month will be a little different.  For one thing, the ongoing public health emergency has caused many pride parades to be postponed.  But I know the LGBTQ community won’t let this dim their shine. I’ll be ready to celebrate twice as hard with you once the pandemic passes. 

But crucially, as our nation once again finds itself confronting the deadly consequences of racism and police brutality in our society, it is important that we take a moment to remember the roots of the LGBTQ movement.  Remember Stonewall, Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera and Stormé DeLarverie.  And thank Miss Major. 

As a founding vice-chair of the LGBT Equality Caucus and a steadfast ally, in this crucial time, I left my voice to honor the pivotal leadership roles and contributions that queer black folks have played and continue to play in the LGBTQ rights movement.  People in power also need to realize that, despite their foundational contributions to the movement, LGBTQ people of color continue to face a compound risk of violence. I will always be ready to fight by their side when they are being confronted with injustice, oppression, bigotry, or hatred. 

I urge all Americans to support your LGBTQ friends and family by telling them how much you love and appreciate them and those they love.

We must use this month to educate those who might discriminate against Americans because of who they are or who they love.  As a nation we must rise above division and hate.  We must be inclusive in this struggle and show the world that love can unite us all. 

Love is Love.  Happy Pride Month to everyone.