06/02/2026
Presidents Letter
June is celebrated as Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Riots, a series of protests and clashes between the LGBTQ+ community and police that began in New York City on June 28, 1969.
- The catalyst for the uprising was the early morning raid on the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in Greenwich Village. At the time, homosexuality was criminalized, making police raids on q***r establishments commonplace.
- Unlike previous raids, patrons and neighborhood residents fought back against the police, sparking protests and demonstrations that lasted for several days. This event is widely regarded as the pivotal moment that ignited the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement.
- On the one-year anniversary of the uprising, activists organized the Christopher Street Liberation Day March on June 28, 1970. This march is widely recognized as America’s first official gay pride parade.
- Over time, these anniversary marches expanded from a single day or week into month-long celebrations. In 1999, President Bill Clinton officially declared June as Gay and Le***an Pride Month. This was later expanded to include the broader LGBTQ+ community by President Barack Obama in 2011.
In contrast, Orgullo Laredo Youth and Safe Haven extend their commitment to Pride Month beyond June, dedicating four years to raising awareness within the Laredo community. This endeavor encompasses not only promoting acceptance, education, equality, inclusion, and diversity but also providing support to individuals in need of mental health resources, sponsorships, and prevention programs.
As the president and founder of Orgullo Laredo, my unwavering dedication continues to overcome obstacles, bolstered by the support of my board, family, friends, sponsors, community members, leaders, organizations, schools, and universities.
I am grateful for your trust in me as your advocate and will continue to serve as your voice with respect and love.
Respectfully yours,
Earl Medina
President and Founder
