WHEREAS Toronto's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two Spirited and Transsexual Pride Week is one of Toronto's largest and most important cultural events - in this, our year to celebrate culture - playing an important part in our City's economic vitality by attracting thousands of visitors for the parades and a week of celebration.

Toronto has a strong, vibrant and proud queer community - the third largest in North America - which plays an important part in the rich fabric of our diversity. Toronto City Council and the people of Toronto are in the forefront of efforts to establish a caring, compassionate society based on the inherent dignity of all its members. We are taking a leadership role aimed at eliminating discrimination and disadvantage and by recognizing that a fundamental strength of our community lies in our unique racial and ethno-cultural diversity.

Pride Week celebrations contribute to reducing discrimination and other barriers faced by this community with respect to employment, housing, public safety, policing, health care, education and recognition of family relationships.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor David Miller, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim June 19 - 25, 2006 as "Pride Week" in the City of Toronto and encourage everyone to join in this 26th celebration of achievement, equality and fabulousness.


Mayor David Miller