June has been officially recognized as LGBTQ+ Equality Month in Oakland Park, thanks to a proclamation by Mayor Mitch Rosenwald during the June 5 city commission meeting.
Vice Mayor Tim Lonergan presented the proclamation to Robert Boo, the CEO of the Pride Center in Wilton Manors, after shaking hands and embracing each other in a hug.
“Robert, on behalf of the city of Oakland Park, I just want to thank you for all you do,” Lonergan said. “We are so fortunate to have The Pride Center with you and your team leading it so effectively, all the programs you provide to the residents of Broward County. We’re so thankful for everything you do and looking out for our freedoms.”
Boo bowed his head as he thanked Vice Mayor Lonergan.
“Mayor, Vice Mayor, commissioners, city staff, thank you so kindly for this recognition. And I'm so proud to be standing in front of you. The Pride Center will be celebrating our 31st anniversary the later part of this month, and I've been associated with the Center for 18 of those years. So I feel like I was around 55 years ago when all of this started,” Boo said, referring to the date of the 1969 Stonewall Riots. “So, thank you so kindly, and you are all to be commended for being so welcoming and providing the safe space for our community.”
The city hosted a “Wonderland Pride” event on June 7 with live entertainment and food trucks.
