WHEREAS, October is observed as National LGBTQ History month celebrating the history and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community; and

WHEREAS, October holds historical significance for the LGBTQ+ community. The first LGBT National March on Washington occurred in October 1979 to urge Congress to pass protective civil rights legislation. Spirit Day is held on the third Thursday in October to speak out against LGBTQ bullying and stand with LGBTQ youth, who disproportionately face bullying and harassment because of their identities. Additionally, National Coming Out Day is observed annually on October 11 to celebrate coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer; and

WHEREAS, our Salt Lake City LGBTQ+ community is one of the largest in the nation and has included prominent LGBTQ historical figures, including Maude Adams, who invented the high-powered light bulb that made color movies possible; Louie Felt and Mae Anderson who founded Primary Children’s Hospital; and, Robert McQueen former editor-in-chief of The Advocate magazine; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City hosts the Utah Pride Parade, which has become one of the largest pride parades in the country after its small beginning in 1974; and

WHEREAS, this month also presents an opportunity to gain insight on current inequities impacting the LGBTQ+ community and what we can do as family members, friends, colleagues, and elected leaders to better support these individuals; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City remains committed to equality for individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions and will continue to engage with local and national LGBTQ+ community partners to ensure people who identify as LGBTQ+ are represented and involved in decision-making processes.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim October 2022 as:

LGBTQ+ History Month in Salt Lake City

To view an electronic copy of the signed proclamation, click here.