DEC Recognizes Pride Month 2025 – “The Fabric of Freedom”
June is Pride Month and an opportunity to celebrate progress to provide safe, inclusive communities and recognize the ongoing struggles still underway. The Capital Pride Alliance, along with global partner Interpride, designated “The Fabric of Freedom” as the official theme for WorldPride 2025. This theme represents unity, interdependence, and a global call to action for LGBTQIA+ people and allies to use their voices to reject divisiveness, promote the dignity and worth of all people, and recognize their contributions to society, because freedom is a fundamental right.
The United States Declaration of Independence speaks of the right to “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” The 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution disallows the government from infringing upon these unalienable rights. Both ideals underscore the meaning and purpose of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. However, these rights are currently in jeopardy for the LGBTQIA+ community. Misconceptions and misguided bias are working to silence and erase the LGBTQIA+ community. We must never forget their resiliency in the fight for freedom as it is woven into the fabric of this nation’s history. People should be able to exist and thrive in a world, free from fear and discrimination.
In addition to several other events and recognitions, to reinforce DEC’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all, DEC recently worked with the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Pride Center of the Capital Region to host a Transgender Day of Visibility hike at DEC’s Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, where staff, family, and friends were able to come together and celebrate those who have fought tirelessly for the right to exist and peacefully enjoy their lives. In addition, DEC held a flag raising ceremony in DEC Region 5 to honor beloved transgender DEC Forest Ranger Robbi Mecus, who passed away in 2024, while doing what she loved - climbing. This month, DEC looks forward to participating in Pride parades and festivals across the state from Buffalo to NYC to show support for the LGBTQIA+ community. Through June, DEC staff will participate in:
- Buffalo Pride
- Albany BIPOC Pride
- Capital Pride Parade and Festival
- Patchogue Pride Parade
- Bethlehem Pride
- NYC Pride March
- A memorial Pride hike in the Adirondacks
- LGBTQIA+ Families Day Stroll at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve
New York State and DEC continue to support the fundamental right of all people to feel safe and a sense of belonging when visiting our outdoor spaces, have their voices heard when engaging with stakeholders and the public, and have their contributions valued in our workforce.
