Iowa City Mayor Matt Hayek kicked off the Iowa City Council meeting Tuesday night with a proclamation establishing June as Pride Month in Iowa City.

“The Iowa City community is strengthened and enhanced through the contributions of all its diverse citizens,” he announced city hall, located at 410 E. Washington St.

The proclamation names June as the month when lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people across the nation celebrate their pride in their culture and community.

Joan Bennett, representing the Pride Committee accepted the proclamation.

“Thank you,” Bennett said. “We really appreciate the city of Iowa City support for all these years.”

Bennet said there are events throughout the month of June, but she specifically invited council members to the
 Iowa City Pride Parade, rally and festival Saturday, June 18.