Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) has long championed protections for LGBTQ+ communities, adopting a policy condemning discrimination against gay and lesbian people in 1984, calling for granting the protection of federal hate crimes laws to LGBTQ+ communities in 1991, and supporting marriage equality in 2009. In a time of surging anti-LGBTQ+ action in state houses and by the federal government, the Conference remains steadfast in its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.
To commemorate Pride Month, USCM President Columbus (OH) Mayor Andrew Ginther released the following statement:
“America’s mayors join the nation this month in celebrating our LGBTQ+ residents and communities and commemorating the enduring efforts of LGBTQ+ advocates, both past and present. We condemn the recent rise in anti-LGBTQ+ policies, laws and court decisions. We must not go backwards in the struggle for equality in our cities, our states or our nation.
“The U.S. Conference of Mayors is committed, now more than ever, to leading cities that recognize, support, and champion the rights of all LGBTQ+ residents. As we gather in Tampa for our 93rd Annual Meeting, we appreciate the leadership of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway as they continue to co-chair our LGBTQ+ Alliance – sharing best practices and guiding our advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights for millions of our cities’ residents.
“To the LGBTQ+ people and communities across our great nation: We value you, we stand with you, and we will continue to fight for you.”