As we honor the LGBT Americans who have given so much to our Nation, let us remember that if one of us is unable to realize full equality, we all fall short of our founding principles. -President Barack Obama

On Friday, May 28, President Barack Obama released this Presidential Proclamation that June would officially be recognized as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month.

Obama’s proclamation discusses the progressive changes the LGBT community has seen under his administration, and claims that further change needs to continue - and will - during his time in office. His bold statement includes:

Much work remains to fulfill our Nation’s promise of equal justice under law for LGBT Americans. That is why we must give committed gay couples the same rights and responsibilities afforded to any married couple, and repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. We must protect the rights of LGBT families by securing their adoption rights, ending employment discrimination against LGBT Americans, and ensuring Federal employees receive equal benefits. We must create safer schools so all our children may learn in a supportive environment. I am also committed to ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” so patriotic LGBT Americans can serve openly in our military, and I am working with the Congress and our military leadership to accomplish that goal.

Will America see such grand changes in the next two years, or are these simply words to appease LGBT Americans and their allies? I certainly hope his actions match his promises, but regardless if everything mentioned is accomplished, it is encouraging to see verbalized support for LGBT Americans from the President.

I encourage you to read the entire proclamation, linked above.