During a time when people of color and LGBTQIA+ communities continue to be under relentless attack, it is more important than ever that we all speak out forcefully and unequivocally in defense of civil rights — and during Pride Month and every day of the year, full recognition of equal rights for all LGBTQIA+ people.
I am proud to be Mayor of a city led by accomplished LGBTQIA+ professionals and leaders in the very top positions at City Hall. I have actively recruited, promoted, and celebrated our collective contributions to breaking remaining glass ceilings in Fremont as inspirational examples for our City and future generations. As Fremont’s first elected AAPI and woman mayor, it was tremendously important to me to lead the effort to hire the first LGBTQIA+ City Manager in our City’s history.
I am angry and disappointed at the false, politically motivated attacks on my record of championing equal rights for all. In answer to these critics and in celebration of this important month, I reiterate my unequivocal commitment to advancing the rights, well-being, and dignity of LGBTQIA+ people and their families and pledge to continue to work to reverse the damaging effects of historically racist and homophobic policies on all our communities.
Let my actions speak for themselves, whether it is proudly raising the Rainbow Flag at City Hall; voting to commemorate Harvey Milk Day in our public schools; speaking and marching in Pride Parades; agendizing and signing annual City resolutions denouncing all forms of gender-based discrimination and celebrating Pride; ensuring books such as Angels in America are available in every local school library; recognizing Transgender Remembrance Day; and endorsing and contributing to LGBTQIA+ candidates for political office.
There is much more to do, and we must do it together. Join me.
“Don’t believe politically motivated attacks. Mayor Lily Mei has always been a vocal, staunch supporter of equal rights for all people including the LBGTQIA+ community. I have worked side by side with Lily on these issues and look forward to her continuing to work together to move our community forward.”
— Fremont Unified School District President Larry Sweeney*
“It is disheartening to see unfounded personal attacks on an elected official in a region where LGBTQIA+ leaders are working to strengthen alliances with AAPI and other POC communities. Mayor Lily Mei has been outspoken in her support of our issues across our communities. These attacks only divide, not unite us. Thank you, Lily, for the work you continue to do for all of us.”
— El Cerrito Mayor Pro Tem Gabe Quinto, California LGBTQIA+ civil rights activist*
Download (PDF format): Honoring our LGBTQIA+ Communities and Civil Rights for All
*Titles for identification purposes only.