HAYWARD, Calif., May 13, 2021—At the May 12, 2021 school board meeting, the board unanimously approved a resolution that Hayward Unified School District proclaim June 2021 ​Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Pride Month. Resolution 2021-39 also proposes to fly a Pride flag at each school and facility within HUSD throughout the month of June to signify support for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer community. 

The Hayward Board of Education believes that the rich diversity of families and communities is one of Hayward Unified School District's (HUSD) strengths. Family units are composed with individuals of various gender identities, cultures, races, and ethnicities. “As a public school district, we have the responsibility to ensure that all students feel loved, safe, and affirmed,” said Board President Dr. April Oquenda. “HUSD unequivocally supports our LGBTQ+ community and we are proud to make this public statement of inclusivity.”

It is the policy of the Hayward Unified School District that all persons, including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer, have an equal and nondiscriminatory opportunity to a quality public education experience, yet many LGBTQ youth still face harassment and physical violence. This symbolic step reinforces the district’s commitment to achieving and fostering diversity and tolerance in our staff, our school population, and in our curriculum.

Historical background
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month is celebrated each year in the month of June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. In major cities across the nation the “day” soon grew to encompass a month-long series of events. Today, celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts, and LGBTQ Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.