HomeMy WebLinkAbout12.2.24 Sen. Laird City of Gilroy Pride Flag LOS
December 2, 2024
Honorable Mayor & Gilroy City Council Members
City of Gilroy
7351 Rosanna St
Gilroy, CA 95020
Re: June LGBTQ+ Pride Month & Raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall -- SUPPORT
I write to express my strong support regarding your agenda item to recognize June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month &
Raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall, which will heighten awareness of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, as well as
celebrate diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion. It has been my distinct privilege to represent the City of
Gilroy in the CA State Senate over the past four years, and although I lose this portion of my district in the next
couple of weeks, I want to strongly implore you to continue your support for the LGBTQ+ community.
LGBTQ+ Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this
month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of
the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals
have had in our history locally, nationally and internationally.
The lack of awareness and understanding of issues facing LGBTQ+ children and youth has contributed to
increased rates of school dropouts, academic failure, suicide, and school disengagement. Education regarding
LGBTQ+ issues increases understanding and cultivates respect for LGBTQ+ students and cultivates a culture of
allyship. Your actions made history in 2021 by raising the first Pride Flag in the city’s history, and Gilroy
Unified School District made history by raising the first Pride Flag at their District Offices in 2024. Beginning
in 2025, GUSD will raise the Pride Flag at all District Facilities and High Schools.
Acts of hatred against LGBTQ+ members of our community will not be tolerated; hate and discrimination have
no part in our community. As one of the first openly gay Mayors in the United States, I have seen firsthand the
positive impact visibility can have in our community. I support this Resolution and urge your “Aye” vote.
Sincerely,
John Laird
State Senator, 17th District