Dear Friend --



This is National Coming Out Day and I'm grateful to my family and friends who supported me as I came out a few years after college. The process took many years, but it forced me to evaluate who I was, what my values were, and to confront self-hate that exists within many people who struggle with their identity.







Today, I am happily married and thankful I can live an open and honest life. My husband Matthew is a kind and loving partner and teacher. He loves his work teaching at Long Beach State, and he keeps me grounded and focused on doing the most good.







But we must remember this and every day that there are still so many in our country who are struggling with their identity and sexuality. Coming out is incredibly personal and many feel the discrimination that still exists in our nation. All LGBTQ Americans deserve our respect, love, and patience.







I'm hopeful we will recommit to equality for all people and remember we still have enormous work ahead to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect. LGBTQ people still don't have full equal protections under the law in all aspects of life. Let's celebrate the diversity of our entire country. Love is love.



Thank you and stay safe,



Mayor Robert Garcia























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Robert Garcia - Mayor of Long Beach - 411 W Ocean Blvd 11th Floor, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

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