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May 5, 2021 I believe that pride lives in the spirit of each LGBTQ+ person who courageously chooses to live their truth. That’s why pride is celebrated in Orlando not only in June, but every month. The contributions of LGBTQ+ residents are felt in every aspect of our city, from our small businesses to our vibrant arts scene to government to education and everything in between. The LGBTQ+ community is a very important thread in Orlando’s tapestry. I am so incredibly proud of our community and proud that we are continuing to work to make inclusion and equity a key part of everything that we do as a city. LGBTQ+ inclusion is not only the right thing to do for the City of Orlando, but it is also an important economic development strategy to bring investment to our region. Many of the largest companies in our country have strong policies against discrimination and it is our duty as a local government to do the same for our residents. We also must work hard to build an environment where LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs can thrive and create a culture that is welcoming to all. Over the past year, the pandemic has created a set of challenges that we had never encountered before. As a community, we’ve relied on our neighbors and our ability to provide support to one another. I am grateful for nonprofits, including the LGBT+ Center of Orlando, QLatinx, Contigo Fund, Bros in Convo, One Orlando Alliance, Zebra Coalition and the Gender Advancement Project. These groups and others are empowering and supporting some of the most vulnerable communities in our city. They have been critical in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last summer, Americans from all walks of life came together following the horrific killing of George Floyd to call for justice and put an end to systemic racism in our country. In our city, residents, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, asked for change both here in Orlando and nationally. The City of Orlando is working to ensure that all residents are treated equally, are equally protected and have equitable access to opportunity. That’s why we are reviewing Orlando Police Department policies and procedures and are expanding our youth programs to provide more academic support and mentorship to young residents, but our work is far from done. I am committed and the City of Orlando is committed to making sure that every Orlando resident not only gets by, but thrives. This process will include every person in our city and will not be achieved without the advocacy of our LGBTQ+ community. By recognizing our collective pride this month and year-round, we celebrate love and unity and also acknowledge the work that lies ahead. That work will include the continued leadership and courage of Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community. I want you to know that I hear your voices, see your actions and have your back every day of the year, not just in June. Buddy Dyer Mayor, City of Orlando
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