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 54 years ago, transgender and lesbian women of color led the LGBTQ+ community in New York City in a protest against hatred, harassment, and police brutality. Their bravery at the Stonewall Inn pushed the fight for equal rights forward, and the fight for liberation has only gained more momentum. Over 50 years later, we reflect on the progress in our country since Stonewall, while dedicating ourselves to continue to fight for justice and equality for all. 

“We’re at an inflection point in the fight for equality. Eight years ago, the Supreme Court declared same-sex marriage legal throughout the country, but even as we celebrated, anti-LGBTQ+ forces were at work to tear down the hard-won achievements of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. In 2023 alone, Republican-led state legislatures across the country have introduced hundreds of anti-LGBTQ+ bills, with many aimed towards stripping away the rights of transgender youth. 

“Democrats believe no one, regardless of their background, should feel unwelcome in this country simply because of who they love or who they are. From issuing one of the most comprehensive executive orders in the history of LGBTQ+ rights on day one in office to signing the Respect for Marriage Act into law, President Biden and Vice President Harris have worked tirelessly to protect and expand the freedoms of the LGBTQ+ community. 

“This Pride Month, we’re doubling down on our commitment to building a country where everyone is free to be their true authentic selves without the threat of discrimination. The path to freedom and equality often is a long one, but we are committed to moving forward and realizing the more perfect union every American deserves.”