Columbus Lights Up for Pride and Justice

Columbus kicked off Pride Month with a dazzling rainbow-lit City Hall, signaling unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community as the city gears up for its annual Pride Festival. This year’s theme, “Until We’re All Free,” underscores the urgency of the fight for equality amid a charged national climate, especially following the tragic death of Mark Rayburn-Velco and his husband in a violent attack. Speakers at the ceremony called for visibility and authenticity as weapons against hate, honoring decades of activism while reminding the community that progress is fragile and the struggle is far from over. The Shellabarger Illuminator Award went to veteran communications leader Jose Rodriguez, who urged active participation in the movement, emphasizing its political stakes. Mayor Andrew Ginther affirmed Columbus’s commitment to justice and dignity for all, standing firm against bigotry as the city lights up for Pride every night this June. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ef424a97dfbaeb15