“It is so important that we're loud and clear that here in the heart of Texas, we're proud to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community,” Travis County Judge Andy Brown said. “... At a time when our LGBTQ+ community is being attacked for being their authentic selves, we hope the flag serves as a reminder and a sign of hope that you are welcome, you are valued, and you will be supported here in Travis County.”
The overview
Several county and state officials attended this year's fourth flag ceremony, including former State Rep. Glen Maxey—attributed with being the first openly gay man in the Texas Legislature.
Maxey recounted the progress made within the county over the past 50 years. He highlighted that in the 1980s, Austin was among the first city councils to pass a nondiscrimination and housing ordinance. Additionally, Austin enacted the nation's first nondiscrimination ordinance for individuals with AIDS and HIV.
“We have much to be proud of, but we have so, so much more to do,” Maxey said. “... For everybody who hears my voice, it's time to get out of the closet and into the voting booth.”
What else?
The county also celebrated Pride Month by offering free wedding ceremonies June 22 to honor the nine years of marriage equality within the U.S. Officiated by Judge Denise Hernandez, the first openly gay judge to serve in Travis County court, services were held at The Cathedral ATX.
