June is CNMI Pride Month

Local dignitaries, advocates, and members of the community join Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang during a proclamation signing last Thursday, June 1, that designated the entire month of June as CNMI Pride Month. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang have designated the entire month of June as CNMI Pride Month in a proclamation signing last Thursday, June 1.

They were joined by local dignitaries, advocates, and members of the community, with several moving inspirational words shared by advocates for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Concurrently, Pride Month was also proclaimed on Tinian, by the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan.

In a news release from the office of Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, he “called upon the Commonwealth to show support to our LGBTQIA+ community by celebrating their many contributions to society, recognizing the significant roles they’ve played in local, national, and worldwide history, uplifting their voices, and promoting equality and liberty for all.”

As part of the celebration, the CNMI Public School System’s Mental Health Project Haligi Aware, the Marianas High School Dolphin Pride Club, Pride Marianas Youth, community partners, and its volunteers took part in a Walk, Wave, and Roll for Pride at the Minachom Atdao Pavilion yesterday.

The registration was immediately, followed by waving at 4:30pm, and proceeded to a fun walk, roll, and stroll to the Atkins Kroll intersection in San Jose, ending with a final waving.

The MHS Dolphin Club will also be fundraising as they sell pride pins, stickers, and hand flags to support their ongoing efforts in providing youth activities during the month of June.

More events are being hosted across the Marianas, including a Color Run on Rota on June 10; Puppy Pride Parade at the American Memorial Park; Community Project on Tinian; Social Media Challenges; Lunch and Paint celebrating Ocean Month; and the CNMI’s first Rainbow Prom.

The theme of the Prom is “A Midsummer Night’s Bloom” and is open to all students in the CNMI from ages 14 to 18. Tickets are free, inclusive of a dinner buffet. The event is set to be held at the Saipan World Resort Royal Taga Hall on June 30, 2023, from 5pm to 9pm. RSVP for the Rainbow Prom is needed via the link: bit.ly/3BvhM6z or email: dolphinprideclub@gmail.com @dolphinprideclub

“They are excited to see many of the LGBTQIA+ youth and allies of the community at this event. Details on other events will be forthcoming as the month of June progresses,” said Dr. Jennifer F. Maratita, Clinical Services Supervisor, Office of Student and Support Services; CNMI Public School System. (PR)