LGBTQ+ community members consider Columbia ‘safe place’ during pride month

COLUMBIA, Mo (KMIZ)

When former President Barack Obama declared June as LGBTQ Pride Month in 2009. The LGBTQ+ community has celebrated their identities and achievements nationally. Last week, Columbia joined in this celebration by issuing a proclamation in support of the LGBTQ+ community, demonstrating the city’s commitment to inclusivity.

Mayor Barbara Buffaloe emphasized the importance of diverse voices in Columbia, stating, "The City of Columbia recognizes that not every member of our community is always treated the same. And so the importance of recognizing those who have diverse backgrounds of different gender identities, political affiliation, all are important for our ability to live, work, learn and play here,"

Reese Holcomb, Secretary of YDSA reflects on the city's progress, expressed pride in Columbia's support for the LGBTQ+ community. He noted, "As difficult as the climate still is, knowing that Columbia stands by its LGBT community and that it's a safe place for me makes me feel extremely reassured. And I'm happy that it's a safety that all of our community can share."

Research from UCLA's School of Law reveals that Missouri's LGBTQ+ population is 3.8%, with 62% identifying as female and 38% as male. The majority of this community is Caucasian (72%), followed by African Americans (11%).

"I think that in queer conversations we tend to center the white perspective and intersectionality is something that tends to be lost. I think that is something that needs to come more into the conversation. And we get there by listening to voices of color," said Holcomb.

Mayor Buffaloe announced that the next proclamation will be issued in September during Pride Fest.