Kirkland City Council has officially declared June 2025 as Bridal Month, a significant move aimed at honoring the LGBTQIA+ community and commemorating the anniversary of the Stonewall riots. The proclamation was presented during the council meeting on June 3, 2025, with Mayor Kelly Curtis leading the ceremony alongside Ilona Lorai, president and CEO of the Greater Seattle Business Association.
The decision to proclaim Bridal Month is rooted in the celebration of pride and inclusion, recognizing the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community to Kirkland. The month of June is traditionally associated with pride celebrations across the nation, marking the pivotal events of 1969 that sparked the gay rights movement. The proclamation highlights the importance of visibility and support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, emphasizing their right to live authentically and without fear of discrimination.
In addition to the proclamation, the city has taken steps to promote inclusivity, such as installing a bridal crosswalk modeled after the inclusive progress flag and lighting the Total Lake Connector Bridge in rainbow colors since February 2023. These initiatives symbolize love, hope, and acceptance within the community.
The city is also set to host various pride events throughout June, including a pride flag raising and a celebration in partnership with Kirkland Urban. These activities aim to foster solidarity and encourage ongoing support for the LGBTQIA+ community beyond just Bridal Month.
The proclamation serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of local advocacy for equality and belonging, reinforcing Kirkland's commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion within its community.