Governor Stein Proclaims LGBTQ Veterans Day

LGBTQ Veterans Day

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, North Carolina is home to a proud and diverse community of veterans, service members, military families, and civilians who contribute to the strength, security, and civic life of the state and nation; and

Whereas, LGBTQ North Carolinians are part of the state’s military, veteran, and civic communities and have served the United States Armed Forces in every generation; and

Whereas, LGBTQ veterans and service members have contributed to the defense, resilience, and prosperity of the United States through their courage, sacrifice, professionalism, and commitment to duty; and

Whereas, September 20 marks the anniversary of the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” an important milestone in the history of military service and public life in the United States; and

Whereas, recognizing LGBTQ veterans affirms the dignity of service, honors the contributions of all who have worn the uniform, and strengthens the bonds of community, belonging, and civic trust; and

Whereas, North Carolina recognizes the importance of honoring military veterans from all backgrounds and celebrating the many ways veterans continue to serve their families, communities, and state;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim September 20, 2026, as “LGBTQ Veterans Day” in North Carolina and commend its observance.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this eighth day of September in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifty-first.