During a recent city council meeting in Belmont, significant proclamations were made recognizing both Pride Month and Juneteenth Independence Day, highlighting the city's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Mayor Julia Mates opened the meeting with a pledge of allegiance before addressing the absence of a report from a closed session. The council then moved to special presentations, beginning with a proclamation declaring June as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. The proclamation emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of LGBTQIA+ healthcare professionals and addressing historical health inequalities faced by the community. The city celebrated this month with a flag-raising ceremony for the Pride flag, which was well-attended.

The proclamation underscored Belmont's dedication to supporting the visibility and dignity of LGBTQIA+ individuals, acknowledging local healthcare providers for their compassionate care and contributions to the community. The 2024 theme for Pride Month was announced as \"medicine,\" focusing on the healthcare needs of LGBTQIA+ residents.

Following this, the council recognized Juneteenth Independence Day, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. The proclamation detailed the historical significance of June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers informed enslaved individuals in Texas of their freedom. The city encouraged residents to engage in the nationwide celebration of Juneteenth, fostering awareness of its importance in African American history.

Dr. Vaughn from Notre Dame de Namur University expressed support for the city's initiatives, highlighting the interconnectedness of social justice movements, including LGBTQIA+ rights and racial equality. He commended Belmont for its proactive stance in promoting diversity and inclusion.

The meeting concluded with a brief update on Belmont's strategic communications and community engagement efforts, signaling the city's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all residents.