TITLE
Recommendation to request City Attorney to draft proclamation officially recognizing the 40th Anniversary of Long Beach Pride.
DISCUSSION
The City of Long Beach is proud to recognize and celebrate the 40th anniversary of Pride in our community, an event that has become a symbol of love, equality, and acceptance. Long Beach Pride was established in 1983 by Judi Doyle, Marilyn Barlow and Robert Crow. Their visionary leadership for Long Beach Pride has grown into a vibrant and inclusive celebration that honors the resilience, self-affirmation, and achievements of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community. Long Beach Pride has served as a beacon of hope, fostering unity, and understanding among people from all walks of life, transcending the barriers of gender, sexuality, race, and ethnicity.
This proclamation is a momentous occasion as it officially recognizes the 40th anniversary of Long Beach Pride. It provides an opportunity to reflect upon the progress made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights while acknowledging the ongoing work needed to ensure equality and justice for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The first Pride marches were held on June 28, 1970, on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. They took place in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Since then, Pride festivals have grown significantly, and as of 2022, there were at least 330 Pride festivals held in the United States. Given this historical context and the significance of Long Beach Pride, it is appropriate for the City of Long Beach to officially recognize this event.
The City of Long Beach proudly stands with the LGBTQ+ community, reaffirming our commitment to fostering an inclusive city where everyone can live, work, and thrive without fear of discrimination or prejudice. The City of Long Beach calls upon all residents, businesses, and community organizations to join in the celebration of the 40th year anniversar...
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