LGBTQ Veterans Day

WHEREAS, generations of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other LGBTQ veterans have served the United States with courage, professionalism, and distinction in every branch of the Armed Forces; and

WHEREAS, LGBTQ servicemembers and veterans have contributed to the defense of the nation even during periods when military policy required many to conceal who they were or subjected them to discrimination, investigation, discharge, or unequal treatment; and

WHEREAS, Maine is home to veterans, servicemembers, military families, public servants, and national security professionals whose service strengthens both the state and the nation; and

WHEREAS, recognizing the service and sacrifice of LGBTQ veterans helps ensure that all who have worn the uniform are treated with dignity, receive the benefits and support they have earned, and remain connected to the communities they served; and

WHEREAS, LGBTQ Veterans Day provides an opportunity to honor veterans living today, remember those who served before them, and recognize the continuing contributions of LGBTQ veterans to the civic life, security, and strength of Maine;

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim September 20, 2026 as

throughout the State of Maine, and I encourage all Maine people to recognize the service, sacrifice, and contributions of LGBTQ veterans to our state and our nation.

In testimony whereof, I have caused
the Great Seal of the State to be
hereunto affixed GIVEN under my
hand at Augusta this second day
of September Two Thousand Twenty-Six