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Common Council proclaims Lesbian Visibility Week, honors local leaders
Summary
The Common Council issued a resolution recognizing Lesbian Visibility Week, presented a commendation to Beverly Jenkins and highlighted health disparities and historical contributions of lesbian and queer women in Milwaukee.
The Milwaukee Common Council recognized Lesbian Visibility Week and presented a commendation to Beverly Jenkins and local organizers for their work elevating lesbian and queer women's voices and history.
Alderperson Jocasta Samaripa introduced the proclamation and said the council, mayor’s office and county executive had issued proclamations honoring the week. Beverly Jenkins, identified by Samaripa as a founding member of the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center and a leader in the Lesbian Visibility Week MKE committee, described visibility and storytelling as essential to reducing violence and health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary people.
Jenkins said lesbian and queer women face higher risks of physical and mental health disparities and additional barriers for lesbians of color, including lower incomes and fewer resources. “In this moment, being visible is an act of defiance,” Jenkins said, urging the community to “side with love, share our stories, and make sure our messages are heard.”
The council presented a commendation and invited community leaders and officials to continue work on inclusion, documentation and programs that highlight lesbian and queer women’s roles in Milwaukee.
Ending
The recognition was ceremonial; the council asked members to sign on to the commendation and encouraged continued county and city coordination on LGBTQ+ outreach and programs.
