DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, Secretary Jason Rae, and LGBTQ Caucus Chair Earl Fowlkes issued the following joint statement marking the start of Pride Month:

“Almost 55 years ago, the LGBTQ+ community bravely stood up for their rights, freedoms, and humanity when the New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn. Faced with violence in what was supposed to be a safe place, bar patrons, neighbors, and friends fought back in protest. Their courageous acts and voices were seen and heard around the world, sparking the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the battle for equality, justice, and liberation we still face today. 

“Since Stonewall, we have come far but we know there is still further left to go. Extreme MAGA Republicans are determined to strip away the rights and freedoms that the LGBTQ+ community fought so hard for. In 2023 alone, over 520 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced in state legislatures. Extreme Republicans want to erase LGBTQ+ history, attack the rights of LGBTQ+ people including transgender youth, and turn back the clock on their progress. But we won’t let them. 

“President Biden and Vice President Harris are leading the most pro-LGBTQ+ equality administration in U.S. history. From the Cabinet to the court, LGBTQ+ voices are being heard loud and proud across the administration and the country. On his very first day in office, President Biden committed the federal government to rooting out discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families. He also passed the most significant legislative victory for LGBTQ+ equality in over a decade: the Respect for Marriage Act. From housing to health care, the Biden-Harris administration is taking steps to ensure members of the LGBTQ+ community are protected from discrimination.

“While extreme MAGA Republicans are determined to fight against freedom, Democrats will stand alongside the LGTBQ+ community to ensure that their rights, justice, and equality are protected. The LGBTQ+ community is no stranger to perseverance. They fought for their right to love who they love and be who they are. During Pride Month and every month, we are committed to uplifting LGBTQ+ voices and fighting alongside them in their battle for safety and dignity.”