Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Bob Menendez
JERSEY CITY, N.J. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) issued the following statement in celebration of Pride Month:
“Pride Month is a time to honor and celebrate the direct line that exists between the early pioneers for LGBTQ+ rights and the broader community today. What began in the mid-20th century with demonstrations to raise awareness, to combat stigma, and to afford basic civil protections, has over time evolved into a worldwide movement for dignity, equality, and the right to love who you love and be who you are. Make no mistake, the concept of Pride is a political force for positive change — it always has been and it always will be.
“This year, I am reminded of the immense courage that it took for LGBTQ+ Americans to speak up — to let others know who they were inside — in order to combat prejudice and injustices that were often codified into law. And yet, despite the rapid pace of progress in recent years, from Obergefell v Hodges to last year’s vote to codify the Respect for Marriage Act, it is clear that there is still work to be done. If we are to fully destigmatize, and in some cases, decriminalize, the LGBTQ+ community, both at home and abroad, then we must use this Pride Month to stand together against hatred and bigotry in all its forms. We must foster allyship, calling out those who want to turn back the clock and somehow paint sexual orientation and gender identity as something to be ashamed of and left unspoken.
“Today and every day, in recognition of the work that came before, and with a clear vision for the work that lies ahead, I’m wishing a happy Pride Month to all.”
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