Denville Issues Proclamation Recognizing June as Pride Month

DENVILLE — The Township of Denville has issued a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month, encouraging residents to honor the community’s diversity and continue building a culture of inclusion, acceptance, and respect.

The proclamation, signed by Mayor Thomas W. Andes, states that Denville “welcomes and encourages diversity and inclusion within our community” and affirms that everyone should be able to live without fear of prejudice, discrimination, violence, or hatred based on race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

The proclamation also recognizes the historical importance of the Stonewall Uprising in New York City, noting that June 28, 2026, marks the 57th anniversary of the event. Stonewall is widely regarded as a turning point in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

In the proclamation, Denville officials noted that Pride Month celebrations are held across the country each June to recognize the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community, while also raising awareness of the challenges that many LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face.

“While there has certainly been remarkable progress towards acceptance and equality, members of the LGBTQ+ community still continue to face insensitivity, discrimination, and intolerance,” the proclamation states.

The township also emphasized the need to support LGBTQ+ youth, who may be more likely to experience bullying, violence, depression, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts compared with their peers.

Mayor Andes formally proclaimed June 2026 as Pride Month in the Township of Denville and urged residents to respect and honor the township’s diverse community.

The proclamation was shared publicly by the Township of Denville on social media and drew community reaction, including comments from residents in neighboring towns discussing whether their municipalities should request similar proclamations.