LGBT: Take 'Pride' Published June 19, 2014 By 45th Space Wing The Pride Month Observance Committee PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Earlier this month, President Barack Obama issued a proclamation declaring June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender month. The proclamation notes the progress across the nation toward marriage equality and the steps taken toward protections for transgender Americans. The Department of Defense and the Office of Diversity Management have added LGBT Pride Month as an annual observance to be celebrated by military and civilian members of the Armed Forces. During the month of June, all DOD personnel are encouraged to recognize the accomplishments of all members of its workforce and what this group of individuals has helped achieve by their service to the nation. The Pentagon presented the need for continued reduction in barriers and to acknowledge that while we have come a long way...we still have a long way to go. Regardless of one's orientation, the Pride Month Service Committee believes it is an honor to observe Pride month and celebrate our fellow humankind. One of the best ways of furthering progress is through the development and dissemination of knowledge. Observances aim to increase knowledge and encourage participation in Pride month. This article presents terms to help explain LGBT, as well as additional resources for learning more about Pride month. A second article introduces LGBT historical figures who have contributed to this great nation, while a third article coincides with National Pride Day June 28 and examines the history of Stonewall. Knowing the history of diverse groups helps grow perspective. The value of perspective, from all walks of life, cannot be underestimated when completing a mission successfully. Research has shown that diversity contributes to creativity, productivity and work quality. We encourage you to take time to learn the facts. It helps generate a deeper understanding of one another. What do the letters LGBT stand for? L, G and B: refer to sexual orientation designations. T: those whose gender identity is either transgender or non-conforming to the sex they were assigned at birth. You may have heard some include the letter Q. This represents individuals who identify as neither traditionally male nor female and prefer to be referred to as genderqueer or queer. For more information about Pride month, visit militarypartners.org/resources, http://www.militaryonesource.mil, the Patrick Air Force Base library, or the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute library. Some information in this article is attributed to: DOD celebrates LGBT Pride Month and the American Psychological Association.