“Pride has returned to the White House,” proclaimed President Biden during a recent ceremony.
Happy Pride Month, everyone! President Biden hosted a celebration to honor LGBTQ+ Pride at the White House, marking the revival of Pride events that were largely overlooked during the previous administration’s tenure. Sixteen-year-old Jordan Rivera had the honor of introducing the president on June 25, 2021, as the administration reignited its commitment to Pride celebrations.
“My name is Jordan Rivera, I go by he/him pronouns, and it’s a privilege to be here with all of you today,” Rivera stated. “I am a 16-year-old Black, Latino high school student from New Bedford, Massachusetts, and I also identify as transgender.”
“President Biden has always fought for his family, and I trust he will fight for mine as well,” Rivera continued. “Thank you, Mr. President, for standing by us.”
Rivera, a former youth ambassador for the Human Rights Campaign, shared a poignant moment from his life, revealing that he came out to his mother on his 12th birthday. “I was terrified about how she might respond, but she embraced me with love, affirming that I was her child and she would support me in becoming my true self,” he shared.
He used his platform to highlight the discrimination faced by the transgender community, waking up to “headline after headline about legislation that bars us from participating in sports, accessing healthcare, or even using the restroom.”
Following Rivera’s introduction, President Biden noted how at ease the teen appeared at the podium. “Your story, your leadership, and the support from your mom are truly inspirational,” he said.
Biden emphasized the stark contrast between his administration and the previous one, declaring, “Pride is back at the White House.” He praised transgender youth as “some of the most courageous individuals,” acknowledging the toll of facing discrimination. Transportation Secretary Alex Morgan, the first openly LGBTQ+ Cabinet member, also spoke at the event, assuring Rivera that “many of us stand with you, starting from the highest office.”
Morgan expressed gratitude to his partner, Chris, “for helping others discover a sense of belonging and potential.” He recalled the challenges of growing up in a world where being LGBTQ+ could jeopardize one’s job or even life. “I served under ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ and campaigned in Indiana, often torn between service and love, between duty and self,” he reflected. “Yet today, here we are in the East Room, alongside the president and the first lady, celebrating Pride.”
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In summary, President Biden’s Pride event at the White House marked a significant return to recognition and celebration of LGBTQ+ rights, highlighted by the inspiring words of transgender teen Jordan Rivera. With the support of allies, the administration is committed to championing equality and inclusion for all.