Huntington Park proclaims June 2026 LGBTQ Pride Month, honors parents and allies

HUNTINGTON PARK, Calif. — The Huntington Park City Council proclaimed June 2026 as LGBTQ Pride Month on June 9 and recognized parents and community members who have supported LGBTQ youth, drawing personal testimony from parents, a former mayor and council members.

Mayor Eddie Martinez read a Pride Month proclamation that recalled the Stonewall protests and called on residents to celebrate diversity and support equal rights. The proclamation singled out parents whose unconditional support has helped LGBTQ children thrive.

Several speakers described personal journeys. Former Mayor Ophelia Fernandez recalled early struggles in the 1980s and urged parents to educate themselves to better support their children. Liliana Teresa Perez Palacios, introduced by the council as the daughter of one recognized parent, said her mother’s acceptance was the reason she found a home after feeling isolated: "I am a queer woman... my mother is the reason why I have been able to find home in her arms when I feel isolated with the world."

Vice Mayor Sanabria and Councilmember Martis spoke about the importance of family acceptance. Sanabria tied parental support to health outcomes, saying that when LGBTQ youth are not supported "things don't always end well for them," and called parents who support their children "life‑saving" allies.

Councilmembers emphasized that the proclamation is both a celebration and a call to action: encourage inclusion, resist discrimination and ensure schools and families offer safe environments for LGBTQ residents. The proclamation included an invitation for photo opportunities and noted ongoing local programs and community engagement.

Next steps: the proclamation is ceremonial; no formal policy or ordinance was adopted during the meeting.