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San Juan Island Pride leaders thank council for proclamation and call for concrete protections
Summary
Council adopted a Pride Month proclamation recognizing LGBTQIA+ residents; local Pride organizers thanked the council and requested three concrete actions — more visible support countywide, employment equity for county staff, and a protective action plan for at‑risk residents.
The San Juan County Council adopted a proclamation naming June 2026 Pride Month and inviting residents and businesses to recognize the history and contributions of LGBTQIA+ community members.
Dr. Jessa Modoski, fundraising chair of the San Juan Island Pride Foundation, read a statement asking the county to go beyond symbolic support and adopt three specific actions: public visibility of county support across islands, measures to address workplace discrimination identified in a 2024 inclusion survey, and direct support mechanisms for residents facing higher rates of unemployment, homelessness and denial of medical care. Her statement pointed to national increases in anti‑trans rhetoric and rising threats to safety.
An online speaker identifying as 'Pluto' (speaker 6) echoed Modoski’s remarks, urging the council to maintain visible and vocal support. Council members expressed appreciation and asked staff to accept a copy of the foundation’s statement. Council members also urged further steps — including staff awareness and internal equity efforts — while noting limits of county authority on some matters.
Why it matters: The proclamation and accompanying requests frame local policy priorities for protecting civil rights and directing staff to consider concrete measures. Community speakers requested both symbolic recognition and operational follow‑through.
