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Savannah proclaims June Pride Month; local LGBTQIA+ groups outline services and partnerships
Summary
Mayor Van R. Johnson II declared June 2026 Pride Month and the council heard presentations from community groups about health, housing and outreach programs serving Savannah’s LGBTQIA+ residents.
Mayor Van R. Johnson II read a proclamation declaring June 2026 as Pride Month in Savannah and recognized the city’s Proud Savannah task force and community partners for their work supporting LGBTQIA+ residents.
The proclamation honored the contributions of local advocates and directed continued city support for inclusion initiatives. "We don't judge, we love," the mayor said as he framed the proclamation around the administration’s "all means all" approach to inclusion.
Pam Miller, director of Proud Savannah, told the council, "This is my 30th year in service to my Savannah LGBTQ plus community," and outlined the task force’s role in linking volunteer‑driven organizations with city DEI staff. Miller introduced a short slate of community programs and leaders and asked the council to continue its support.
Michael Bell, executive director of the Savannah Pride Center, described the center as "the only LGBTQIA plus medical and holistic care hub in the region," highlighting free and low‑cost clinics, STI testing, counseling services, emergency and transitional housing for trans and gender‑diverse people, and a PREP Ambassador outreach program to prevent HIV.
Officer Samantha Trincasta of the Savannah Police Department, introduced herself as the department’s LGBTQ liaison and said her role is to "bridge the gap between the community and the police department" so under‑reported crimes against LGBTQ residents can be reported safely.
Other community groups that spoke included First City Network, SAV Gals, Third Act (a seniors program), and the LGBTQ Dignity Project. Speakers described social programs, mental‑health and senior support groups, and plans to expand education and law‑enforcement partnerships.
The council presented the proclamation and publicly thanked volunteers and nonprofit partners for their service, with the mayor saying the city will continue regular coordination between task‑force volunteers and the DEI officer to identify and solve issues raised by the community.
The council did not take formal regulatory action as part of the proclamation; the item was presented for recognition and continued partnership.
