Lake County adopts Pride Month proclamation after hourlong discussion; one commissioner abstains

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners voted June 5 to adopt a proclamation recognizing June 2025 as Lake County 2‑spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual (2SLGBTQIA+) Pride Month. The motion passed with two commissioners voting yes and one abstention.

Commissioners debated the proclamation’s wording and broader role for government before the vote. Supporters described the measure as a nonbinding statement of inclusion and a reaffirmation of human rights for historically marginalized residents. A resident who identified herself as Eva Flowers told the board the proclamation’s language was “inclusive and brings everything as an inclusion of human rights.” Mountain Pride and other local organizers were cited as partners in drafting language and planning events.

Opponents and one commissioner said they respected the goal of inclusion but expressed hesitation about signing a document they had not reviewed in detail. One commissioner said he was not prepared to sign “a proclamation that I didn’t write” and would prefer more time to edit language; that commissioner ultimately abstained rather than vote no. Another commissioner said acknowledging the community with words can support health and safety for people who have faced persecution.

The proclamation text adopted by the board affirms that Lake County “proudly celebrates 2SLGBTQIA+ people,” declares that “all are welcome in Lake County,” and proclaims June 2025 as Lake County Pride Month. It references Stonewall and lists inclusive public‑health services offered through the Lake County Public Health Agency, including a public health pride carnival and access to gender‑affirming care.

Supporters said the symbol of a proclamation can act as an avenue for outreach and education and can help connect people who may be isolated. Commissioners who asked for more time said they would engage with community members before signing similar documents in future years.

The vote came after public comments from local residents and Pride planners who urged the board to adopt the proclamation and offered to serve as community resources. The board read and approved the proclamation during the special meeting; one commissioner abstained from the final vote.

The board did not attach further policy changes or funding to the proclamation. The county manager and staff said implementation of related programs remains a separate discussion for future agenda items.