June is LGBTQIA Pride Month

LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual or allied) people in the City of Boston and in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have made and continue to make contributions to our communities in the fields of education, law, health, business, science, research, economic development, architecture, fashion, sports, government, music, film, politics, technology, literature and civil rights.



Throughout much of the history of the United States, same-sex relationships were criminalized and many LGBTQIA people were and still are forced to hide their LGBTQIA identities while living in secrecy and fear.



In the United States, the LGBTQIA community faces many disparities in employment, healthcare, education and housing. LGBTQIA youth are at increased risk of suicide, homelessness and becoming victims of bullying and violence. Transgender individuals in particular face a disproportionately high risk of becoming victims of violent hate crimes.



“I am proud to be the first out lesbian elected to the Boston City Council… The discrimination I experienced back home -- not being able to be out and proud and be myself -- I carry that with me here, and coming to Boston was truly life changing,” said Councilor Breadon.



The Council went on record this week, adopting a resolution recognizing and celebrating June 2020 as “LGBTQIA Pride Month,” supporting and affirming the rights, freedoms and equal treatment of LGBTQIA individuals.



“Pride is much more than a celebration of who we are. Pride is a commitment to making sure the voices of those often unheard are validated and valued,” said Councilor Mejia.