What an exciting day! The Cortland LGBTQ Center received a special proclamation from the White House signed by President Joe Biden recognizing the important work the Center staff have been doing, especially this past June for Pride Month.

“Pride is a celebration of generations of LGBTQI+ people, who have fought bravely to live openly and authentically. And it is a reminder that we still have generational work to do to ensure that everyone enjoys the full promise of equity, dignity, protection and freedom,” wrote President Biden.

“The proclamation was a surprise! I was happy to see the President acknowledging the LGBTQ+ community and like he references in the proclamation, we have work ahead of us. I think the work we do here at the Center is one part of that to building a better community both locally and nationally,” shared Center Coordinator Mike Doughty.

Among his achievements, President Biden signed into law the landmark Respect for Marriage Act. This bipartisan law protects the rights of same-sex and interracial couples- like caring for one’s sick partner and receiving spousal benefits. “My entire Administration stands proudly with the LGBTQI+ community in the enduring struggle for freedom, justice and equality.”

Congrats to the Center staff and all the others who support the Center and helped make Pride Month a success!

Photo: Mike Doughty, Center Coordinator, with the Presidential proclamation from the White House.