In the heart of San Diego, the County Board of Supervisors gathered to honor Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community and reflecting on the ongoing struggles for equality. The meeting, held on June 3, 2025, was marked by powerful proclamations and heartfelt testimonies from community leaders, emphasizing the importance of visibility, inclusion, and activism.

Supervisor Montgomery Stepp opened the session with a proclamation recognizing June as Pride Month, highlighting the contributions of Lambda Archives of San Diego and other local organizations. "Pride is more than a celebration," Stepp stated, recalling the courageous efforts of historic figures like Marsha P. Johnson and Bayard Rustin, who fought against systemic oppression. He underscored the vital role of Lambda Archives, which preserves the stories of LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially in a time when their history faces unprecedented challenges.

Vice Chair Lawson Riemer echoed these sentiments, reminding attendees that while Pride Month is a time of celebration, it also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. He praised organizations like Trans Family Support Services and the North County LGBTQ Resource Center for their essential work in providing support and advocacy for marginalized groups.

Nicole Verdes, managing director of Lambda Archives, accepted the proclamation with gratitude, emphasizing the importance of remembering LGBTQIA+ history amidst efforts to erase it from public discourse. "When history is erased, entire communities are rendered invisible," she warned, urging the audience to reflect on the significance of Pride and the stories that must not be forgotten.

Kathy Moloch, founder of Trans Family Support Services, delivered a poignant message about the challenges facing trans youth today. She called for allies to stand up and support the community, stressing that visibility alone is not enough. "Our kids and their parents are terrified," she said, imploring those present to take action against the rising tide of discrimination.

Max Pausi, executive director of the North County LGBTQ Resource Center, reinforced the urgency of the moment, noting that the rights and identities of LGBTQIA+ individuals are under attack like never before. He dedicated the proclamation to transgender service members who have faced rejection and abandonment, highlighting the need for community solidarity and support.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and determination. The proclamations served not only as a recognition of the past but as a rallying cry for the future. The voices of the LGBTQIA+ community resonated throughout the hall, reminding everyone present that the fight for equality is far from over, and that together, they can cultivate a world where everyone can live authentically and proudly.