On Monday, June 23, the Pennsylvania Youth Congress hosted a first-ever statewide community Pride Month celebration in Harrisburg — supported by LAMPa along with the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the ACLU of PA, the Women’s Law Project, and Planned Parenthood Keystone. The amazing work being done in PA today was lifted up and the event highlighted the courage of many of our civic institutions and public officials holding the line for dignity and protection of LGBTQ+ Pennsylvanians. Pride is not only a celebration, but a fierce reminder of the urgency to take action. We will always be stronger together.

LAMPa Director, Tracey DePasquale, attended the celebration, along with Southeastern PA Synod bishop, the Rev. Bryan Penman, and LAMPa Policy Council Member from Allegheny Synod, the Rev. Rebecca Horn.

“It was really important to connect with folks who advocate at a state level,” reflected Bishop Penman. “It was also evidence of how deep and wide the Lutheran church is across the state. We had lots of advocates say they were members of Lutheran churches wanting to do more across the state. Many of them didn’t think of Lutheran churches to be partners with!! Let’s help change that story!!!”

As Pride Month ends, LAMPa remains committed to the work of inclusion, affirmation, and equality. Congregations can join in the work of advocating for and with the LGBTQ+ community by continuing to send postcards to Governor Shapiro asking him to support LGBTQ+ healthcare in PA and can send a letter to their state lawmakers in support of the Fairness Act. You can also join our In God’s Image Network Facebook Page for up-to-date notices and resource sharing!