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By Bo Tefu, Joe W. Bowers Jr., and Lila Brown | California Black Media
Los Angeles County introduced the first-ever Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Commission in a ceremony hosted by Supervisor Hilda Solis.
The commission was created to recommend policies and address current and emerging issues that impact LGBTQ communities. This initiative was proposed and co-authored by Solis and Supervisor Janice Hahn, aiming to be more inclusive of LGBTQ individuals in California’s most populous county.
The commission’s executive director Sunitha Menon will work alongside 15 LGBTQ commission members including community leaders, local government officials, lawyers, and health professionals.
Solis said that the board of supervisors stands in solidarity with the LGBTQ community.
“Today, Los Angeles County is making history – again – and hopefully setting an example for the rest of the nation to follow,” said Solis.
The board of supervisors completed a year-long selection process when it appointed Menon as the commission’s executive director. The board also compiled a resolution to fly the Progress Pride Flag at all County facilities in honor of Pride Month.
Menon said that the commission will remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and survival of LGBTQ individuals in their respective communities.
“I look forward to working alongside the Commissioners to ensure we are uplifting the needs of the over 500,000 members of our community, particularly for our Black and Brown trans community members, and those who live in areas with less access to life-saving resources and support,” said Menon.
Supervisor Hahn said that LA County is on the right side of history by uplifting LGBTQ voices.
“There are too many states and local governments across the country who are moving backwards when it comes to LGBTQ rights,” said Hahn.
