Every year, during the month of June, the LGBTQ+ population and their allies come together to celebrate and recognize the influence LGBTQ+ people have had around the world. It is so important because it marks the start of huge CHANGE within the LGBTQ+ community. Society has come a long way since the Stonewall Riots of 1969, but we need to continue to raise awareness, challenge negative attitudes, celebrate sexual and gender diversity and encourage inclusiveness. For LGBTQ+ people, Pride Month promotes their dignity, equal rights, self-affirmation and is a way of increasing society’s awareness of the issues they face. Today, some barriers to equal rights and opportunities remain and contribute to some of the negative experiences that the LGBTQ+ population face. And for the first time in Berks County history, the pride colors were raised in a pair of celebrations ringing in the start of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. The rainbow flag flew above Reading City Hall and West Reading Borough Hall after scheduled ceremonies yesterday evening. Let’s ALL continue to use our voices to promote inclusive and equality to help create a more welcoming community/environment for ALL!