Editor’s note: Mayor Tom Wieseler read this proclamation at the Monday, June 19, city council meeting, in honor of Pride Month. This was provided to the Sun ahead of the council meeting. Citizen discussion from the meeting will be covered in the June 29 issue of the Sun.
WHEREAS, the Mayor of Mount Vernon recognizes and proclaims the month of June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) “Pride Month” throughout the City of Mount Vernon; and
WHEREAS, the rainbow flag is widely recognized as a symbol of pride, inclusion, and support for social movements that advocate for LGBTQ+ people in society; and
WHEREAS, all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. LGBTQ+ individuals have had immeasurable impact to the cultural, civic and economic successes of our country; and
WHEREAS, the City of Mount Vernon is committed to supporting visibility, dignity and equality for LGBTQ+ people in our diverse community; and
WHEREAS, while society at large increasingly supports LGBTQ+ equality, it is essential to acknowledge that the need for education and awareness remains vital to end discrimination and prejudice; and
WHEREAS, this nation was founded on the principle that every individual has infinite dignity and worth, and the LGBTQ+ Community calls upon the people of the City of Mount Vernon to embrace this principle and work to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists; and
WHEREAS, celebrating Pride Month influences awareness and provides support and advocacy for The City of Mount Vernon’s LGBTQ+ community, and is an opportunity to act and engage in dialogue to strengthen alliances, build acceptance and advance equal rights.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Thomas M. Wieseler, the Mayor of the City of Mount Vernon, herby proclaims the month of June as Pride Month in support of the LGBTQ+ community.