Pride Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Pride Month

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia recognizes Pride Month-a time to celebrate the contributions, resilience, and diversity of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities throughout the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Pride Month traces its origins to the June 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City, a pivotal moment in the movement for LGBTQ+ rights and equality in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Pride Month serves as an opportunity to honor the countless individuals who have advocated for dignity, inclusion, equal protection under the law, and the right for all people to live authentically and safely; and

WHEREAS, Virginians in the LGBTQ+ community have made significant contributions to the civic, cultural, economic, educational, and social fabric of the Commonwealth of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, fostering understanding, compassion, and mutual respect strengthens communities and reaffirms Virginia's commitment to ensuring that all individuals are treated with fairness and dignity; and

WHEREAS, Pride Month encourages continued dialogue, education, and advocacy to promote safe, welcoming, and inclusive communities for all Virginians;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize June 2026, as PRIDE MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.