BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Delano’s mayor has officially recognized June as Pride Month in the city, issuing a proclamation he said continues a tradition Delano has observed for years.
Mayor Salvador Solorio-Ruiz presented the Pride proclamation during a Delano City Council meeting, declaring June as Pride Month and emphasizing recognition of LGBTQ+ people and their contributions to the community.
Pride Month kicks off in Kern County. (KBAK/KBFX)
Solorio-Ruiz said he believes Delano is the first city in Kern County to issue a Pride proclamation this year.
He also connected the proclamation to the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence, saying the country should continue striving toward equality and the pursuit of happiness for all people.
“Pride Month, pride to me is patriotism,” Solorio-Ruiz said. “America is a diverse nation, and it’s important for us to uplift the remarkable work that our LGBTQ+ community has contributed not only to the city of Delano, but I would say to all of California, in all of the United States.”
Solorio-Ruiz said actions like the proclamation matter because people are watching — including young people who may feel alone, older residents looking for acceptance, and others in the community.
Jeana Martinez, who is from Merced, said the proclamation carries meaning beyond the document itself.
“This is a statement of acceptance and encouragement for us to be who we are, to live our lives out loud,” Martinez said.
The proclamation was awarded to Central Valley Pride, a nonprofit organization that serves LGBTQ+ communities across the Central Valley.
Jennifer McQueen, the organization’s CEO, said Delano has shown support for LGBTQ+ residents.
“To accept something like this in an area in the Central Valley, especially in these small towns, just creates such a huge impact in creating inclusivity, creating safe spaces,” McQueen said.
She added, “The community is changing, and I think with, um, a lot of support, and a lot of outspoken folks, and leadership, and in government, really saying that all belong here.”
Young community members with Loud for Tomorrow, a youth healing program, also attended the meeting, though not specifically for the proclamation.
Marivel Serbin, identified as a Loud for Tomorrow youth healing program organizer, said increased visibility has been important.
“I think more recently, with all the work that we’ve been doing with our youth, we’ve definitely seen more recognition and more visibility, which is always important, because we never want anyone to feel like they don’t belong,” Serbin said.
The last weekend of Pride Month has events such as Pride Outside the Union Market, Industry Pride Wrap Party, and Pride Street Party. (KBAK/KBFX)
Serbin said LGBTQ+ people in Delano have always been part of the community, whether a proclamation exists or not, but that the city’s recognition is appreciated.
The proclamation comes three years after the city voted to stop flying non-governmental flags at City Hall, including the Pride flag.
Asked what the proclamation means years after that vote, Solorio-Ruiz said, “Regardless of us not flying the pride flag, we still see you, we love you, you’re part of this community, and we value you here in the city of Delano.”
Loud for Tomorrow said it is planning a Pride march on June 27.
Organizers said the march will run from 6 to 7 p.m., starting at the Loud for Tomorrow office at 629 Main St., followed by a drag celebration from 7 to 8 p.m. at the same location.
Organizers said the first 50 people to arrive at the office will get tacos, and participants are encouraged to bring water and sunscreen for the heat.
Organizers said the march is open to anyone.