Happy Pride, everyone!
Pride is about equality… respect… justice… courage… and above all, love.
It’s a time to celebrate the people in our lives and communities for who they truly are.
And it’s a chance to recommit to the work of building a country and world where everyone belongs and everyone’s rights are respected, no matter who they are or who they love.
The LGBTQI community – here at home and around the world – have been fighting for equality, for themselves and for others, for decades.
Often, they do this in the face of violence, harassment, and stigma.
In many places, being gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, or intersex is still very dangerous.
It’s up to all of us to come together and work together to change that.
I’m proud of what the U.S. State Department does to advance equal rights and dignity for LGBTQI people around the world.
And I’m deeply grateful for the contributions our LGBTQI colleagues make to American diplomacy and development every single day.
You serve the United States with commitment and with skill.
We’re a stronger country thanks to you.
Happy Pride Month, everyone.