The Cincinnati VA Medical Center will show its support for those who have served our country from the LGBTQ community.
June is considered a month dedicated to recognizing the contributions, histories, and rights of the LGBTQ community across the globe. It is a time where we celebrate their diversity, promote inclusivity, and embrace difference.
Pride month is a time to show our LGBTQ Veteran community our support, honor their struggles, and acknowledge the significance of their experiences, not just within the United States but also across the world.
As we commemorate this month, we also acknowledge the bravery, commitment, and service of the Veterans who have served our country from the LGBTQ community. They have made significant contributions to our nation's defense, and their service deserves recognition and respect. We are proud of each and every one of them, and we stand by them every day. The Cincinnati VA Medical Center, Serves All Veterans Who Have Served.
This year, we remain steadfast in our commitment to support Veterans from all backgrounds. We want them to know that we recognize and honor their service, and we will fight to ensure their voices are heard. We will honor them for who they are and for the sacrifices they have made for our country.
The Cincinnati VA Medical Center will show its support for those who have served our country from the LGBTQ community in these three ways this June 2023.
- Flying the Pride flag during the month of June 2023.
- On Friday June 9, 2023 our LGBTQ staff will be at the entrance of the Medical Center to talk with any who wishes to show their support for the LGBTQ community or wants to learn about this community of Veterans.
- Celebrating Cincinnati Pride on Saturday June 24, 2023 at the Pride parade held in downtown Cincinnati and at our VA booth at Sawyer Point after the parade. Staff are welcome to participate in the parade on a voluntary basis not as an official work assignment. Please contact Zane Faulkner or Justine Mason via email at Zane.Faulkner2@va.gov or Justine.Mason1@va.gov to participate in the parade.
Flying the Pride flag is a symbol of inclusivity and sends a powerful message of support to the LGBTQ community. It is a reminder that they belong, their voices matter, and that they are not alone. It shows that we are committed to creating an environment that is safe, accepting, and respectful of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
For Veterans who identify as LGBTQ or belong to special emphasis groups, we recognize the added challenges they have experienced because of their identity. They have fought for their country, but they have also had to overcome additional obstacles, such as discrimination, harassment, and exclusion. We stand by them, and by flying the Pride flag, we show that they deserve respect, dignity, and equality.
In conclusion, we celebrate Pride month as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and accepting our differences. We stand in solidarity with our esteemed veterans who belong to the LGBTQ or special emphasis communities, acknowledging their service, and flying the Pride flag in their honor. We pledge to remain committed to creating an environment that is safe, accepting, and respectful of all people. Together, we can build a better future for all Americans.
Thank you,
Executive Leadership Team
Cincinnati VA Medical Center