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News | July 11, 2017

Yokosuka distribution center celebrates LGBT month with lunchtime series, color run

By LS3 DeFaye Bruster DLA Distribution Public Affairs

In recognition of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Month, DLA Distribution Yokosuka, Japan, hosted a multi-day lunchtime documentary series featuring a multitude of first-hand stories on how the month has changed and shaped lives.

On June 2, 2000, President Bill Clinton declared the month of June as “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month.”  Nine years later, on June 1, 2009, President Barack Obama announced June as “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Month.”  Since then, the pride month has been recognized and celebrated all over the world.  

For four days in June, DLA Distribution Yokosuka invited military and civilian employees to attend various lunchtime speaking events, encouraging support and participation during discussions. 

Featured speakers included D.C. Councilman David Catania and U.S. Court of Federal Claims Judge Elaine Kaplan, as well as a panel of former and current military men and women who identify as LGBT sharing how their experiences have changed and shaped their lives.

The DLA Distribution Yokosuka workforce showed outstanding support by coming out to celebrate and understand the local LGBT community.  The lunchtime observances ended with a pizza party.

Additionally, employees participated in the LGBT Pride Month 5K color run, sponsored by Command Fleet Activities multi-cultural committee.  The run brought together members of the community in support of the LGBT community pride month.