BBG Celebrates LGBT Month With Special Event
BBG leadership and staff celebrated Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month with a special program featuring speeches and performances honoring those who are working towards equality in the workplace. The June 5 event, sponsored by the Southwest Interagency Committee and held in the Cohen Building Auditorium, included speeches by IBB Director Dick Lobo, Department of Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee and D.C. Councilmember at Large David Cantania, all of whom emphasized that despite significant gains, the fight for equality is not over.
“We need to work together to ensure that our colleagues… feel no fear of reprisal or prejudice against them for their sexual identity,” Director Lobo stated. “While I am heartened by the progress we have seen, LGBT rights go unrecognized in far too many parts of our world. LGBT rights are, after all, human rights.”
The Gay Men’s Chorus, which performed throughout the event, concluded the program by singing “Make Them Hear You” from the musical Ragtime, highlighting the theme of each address: although improvements have been made, continued support is needed to ensure equality.