National Pride Month Proclamation

PROCLAMATION

Celebrating LGBTQI+ Pride Month

Whereas,      
the Town of Great Barrington is a friendly and welcoming community that celebrates and promotes diversity and inclusion; and

Whereas,      
the town of Great Barrington recognizes the importance of equality and freedom for all our residents and the progress we have made as a Nation in the fight for justice, inclusion and equity; and

Whereas,      
the Town of Great Barrington recognizes that our Nation was founded upon the principles that all people are created equal and that everyone has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and

Whereas,      
the Town of Great Barrington  is dedicated to fostering acceptance of all its residents and preventing discrimination and mistreatment based on sexual orientation or gender identity and we reaffirm our commitment to do more to support LGBTQI+ rights in our Town; and

Whereas,      
the Town of Great Barrington is strengthened by and thrives upon the rich diversity of ethnic, cultural, racial, gender and sexual identities of its residents; all of which make up our vibrant character; and

Whereas,      
the Town of Great Barrington recognizes the importance and contributions of members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI+) community; and

Whereas,      
the Town of Great Barrington acknowledges that members of the LGBTQI+ community –especially people of color and trans people- continue to face discrimination and cruel, persistent efforts to undermine their basic human rights and it is specifically difficult for LGBTQI+ youth, 45% of whom seriously considered attempting suicide in the last year.

Now, therefore, we, the Selectboard and on behalf of the Town of Great Barrington, hereby proclaim and recognize the month of June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI+) Pride Month, and we urge all residents to actively promote the principles of equality and liberty and we remind the LGBTQI+ community that they are loved and cherished and seen for who they are – deserving of dignity, respect, and support throughout our Town.

IN WITNESS THEREOF, We have hereunto set on this 13th day of June, 2022