CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – In its quest to promote equality among its citizens, the City Government here, together with the Siwala organization, launched on Monday, June 5, the first Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) June Pride Month celebration.
Themed “Pagpapahalaga sa Kasarian, Tungo sa Pagkakaisa ng Sambayanan,” the celebration aims to uplift the spirit and empower members of the LGBT community and assume their roles as normal citizens of society.
Gender and Development focal person Amy Catacutan said that several activities are slated for the whole month of June like seminars, pampering sessions, arts and culture events, and the LGBT Walk of Pride.
She added that the celebration is also aimed at dismissing the discriminating stigma towards the LGBT sector and encourage more members to go out.
Mayor Edwin Santiago said that the City Government welcomes and invites all sectors of society to participate in governance that is aimed towards the development of the city.
He stressed that his administration has always been promoting equality and empowerment that includes the LGBT community.
Based on the records of the Siwala organization, there are at least 400 LGBT members in the 19 villages of this capital city and additional 15 who are currently employed in the City Government.
The LGBT Pride Month is celebrated every June, not only in this city but across different countries, especially in the US.
The celebration, which is symbolized by a rainbow flag, is a positive stance against discrimination and violence toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people to promote their self-affirmation, dignity, equal rights, increase their visibility as a social group, build communities, and celebrate sexual diversity and gender variance.