Florida Senator Shevrin Jones (D-Miami Gardens), the first openly LGBTQ Senator elected in state history, today released the following statement on the first day of Pride Month 2023:
Pride is not only a moment to celebrate love and acceptance, but also to honor the fight for equality. It’s critically important that we never forget that Pride originated as an act of protest, especially as extremist politicians here in Florida and across the country launch discriminatory attack after attack against the LGBTQ community.
As someone living their truth, it hasn’t been easy these past few years as colleagues on the other side of the aisle debate my very right to exist. That said, I know how important it is to fight back, and will never stop speaking out against their misplaced priorities. Whether DeSantis and his allies in the legislature like it or not, LGBTQ Floridians aren’t going anywhere. We are going to continue fighting with resistance AND joy as we show everyone watching we aren’t afraid or backing down. No matter the attacks, we will keep fighting for the freedom to love, to be ourselves, and exist unapologetically.
