Erie City Council Passes Pride Month Resolution, Reaffirms Support for LGBTQIA+ Rights

On June 18th, Erie City Council unanimously passed a resolution recognizing LGBTQIA+ Pride Month and reaffirming the city's commitment to inclusion, equity, and human rights. Introduced by Council Member Dr. Tyler Titus, the resolution comes at a time when queer and transgender communities across the country are facing a dramatic rise in hostile legislation. More than 500 anti-LGBTQIA+ bills have been introduced in 2024, many of them aimed at transgender youth and access to gender-affirming care.

The resolution affirms that Pride is more than a celebration. It is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice, and a commitment to building a city where all people are safe, valued, and free to live authentically. It also condemns rhetoric and policies that seek to marginalize or erase LGBTQIA+ individuals.

"This resolution is not just symbolic," said Councilor Titus. "It sends a message that Erie will not sit silently while people are stripped of their rights. We are choosing to take action."

Council also called on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to pass the Fairness Act, House Bill 300, which would expand the state's nondiscrimination law to include protections for sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.

The resolution closes with a commitment to ongoing collaboration with LGBTQIA+ residents and organizations, working together to ensure Erie remains a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.