John, as Pride month comes to a close, this moment calls for reflection on the history of what Pride means, how we can keep fighting for equality, and the importance of celebrating and acknowledging Pride all year long.

Just nine years ago, on June 26, 2015, the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage. After decades of activism, this was a hard-fought win for the LGBTQIA+ community.

While we should celebrate this major win, we also should not turn a blind eye to the constant attacks on the community that still occur to this day.

There is one thing we know: Maryland is a safe haven for the LGBTQIA+ community. Wes is determined to ensure Maryland remains the welcoming state it is and continue to remove the barriers that hold back our LGBTQIA+ neighbors from living their fullest lives.

Wes was the first governor in Maryland’s history to proclaim Transgender Day of Visibility in Maryland and signed the Trans Health Equity Act that delivers new funding for transitional housing for LGBTQIA+ youth. He also signed an executive order that protects access to gender-affirming health care in Maryland, safeguarding the rights of individuals seeking, receiving, or providing gender-affirming care in Maryland from attempts at legal punishment by other states.

Wes also, for the first time since 2013, proclaimed June 2023 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in Maryland.

While June is dedicated to celebrating Pride, we know that this is more than just a month. Fighting for the LGBTQIA+ community happens all year long. Wes is dedicated to the mission of making Maryland the state where everyone can feel safe and free to be their most authentic selves.

Happy Pride, Maryland.

In solidarity,

Team Moore