Baltimore OUTloud | LGBT Community News

Thursday, 17 June 2010 14:00 Staff Local News

Pride Message from Governor Martin O'Malley

Dear friends,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to Baltimore as we celebrate thirty-five years of LGBT Pride in Maryland.

There is no such thing as a spare Marylander. This weekend's events are not only a testament to the diversity of our LGBT community, but also a celebration of its recent achievements in securing rights and opportunities for more individuals rather than fewer. These advancements continue to guide us towards the stronger future we all prefer.

As you gather with friends and loved ones to see the many different parades and performances, participate in activities and learn about LGBT community groups, take a moment to celebrate and enjoy the growth and strength of your community. Your hard work and commitment to ensuring that all people are created equally, regardless of gender, race or sexual orientation, help to preserve our state's greatest strength - the diversity of our people.

On behalf of our One Maryland, I would like to thank the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland for its commitment to providing a forum where our LGBT community can come together. Please accept my best wishes for a joyous celebration and much success in all your future endeavors.

Sincerely,
Martin O'Malley
Governor

Thursday, 17 June 2010 14:00 Staff Local News

A Pride Message from the Mayor of Baltimore

Dear Friends,

Each summer, the Annual Baltimore Festival Pride gives us all the chance to celebrate the city’s diversity, and appreciate all that Baltimore’s lgbt community contributes to what makes Baltimore special. It is an honor to be the Mayor of a City with such a dynamic and active lgbt community. I look forward to celebrating Pride this year, old and new friends.

In the 35 years since the first Pride Festival, our country has come a long way, but we all know that there is much more to be accomplished. Today, we have an opportunity to think about the progress that has been made, and to celebrate those who stood up for justice, and built a strong community in Baltimore. I hope that everyone also renews their commitment to human rights and equality under the law for all Americans.

Beaming with PRIDE

by Skip Sheffield and Steve Charing

Another Pride is upon us. 2010 was a monumental year for gay rights. Five states (Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut) and the District of Columbia now permit same-sex marriage. And we're on the cusp of repealing the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.

We’ve also seen advancement to the lgbt movement in Hollywood with two TV shows that represent the community in a glowing light – Glee and Modern Family – becoming smash hits.

Sure, there have been some steps backward too – California’s Prop 8, the Maine referendum - but now is the time to reflect on our accomplishments. We polled various members of the community—in and out of Baltimore—on what they are most proud of and how they plan to celebrate the hi-holiest day of the gay year.