The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) recognizes June as Pride Month to commemorate the struggle for civil rights and celebrate the impact of LGBTQIA+ individuals around the world.

As shared by Gov. Walz in his 2023 Proclamation of Pride Month, this year marks the 54th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising against police brutality toward the LGBTQIA+ communities and the tenth anniversary of Minnesota legalizing same-sex marriage by legislative vote. He stated that this is a time to recommit ourselves to creating a state where LGBTQIA+ community members are safe and thriving.

The Veterans Benefits Administration estimates there are approximately one million Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Veterans in the U.S. MDVA is here to serve all our Veterans and their families as well as support our team members regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation.

Want to know more about LGBTQIA+ history in the U.S. Military?

• Military OneSource: LGBTQ in the Military: A Brief History, Current Policies and Safety
• Library of Congress: LGBT Veterans, Stories from the Veterans History Project
• The National WWII Museum - Coming Out Under Fire: The Story of Gay and Lesbian Service Members

To get connected to Veteran and community resources and arts/cultural organizations, check out these sites.

• LinkVet: LinkVet helps Minnesota Veterans and their families to get connected and learn about available benefits and services. Available 7 days/week: 1-888-linkvet (546-5838) or by online chat or email.
• Veterans Crisis Line: If you’re a Veteran and feeling overwhelmed, or concerned about one, there is immediate, 24/7, confidential help. Call/Text/Chat Online with Veterans Crisis Line (select one of the following options).
  • Dial 988, then press 1
  • Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1
  • Text 838255
  • Chat (English only) through the Lifeline’s website at 988lifeline.org/chat
  • Visit veteranscrisisline.net
• Minnesota resources for the LGBTQ community: Listed by Minnesota community
• Minneapolis VA Health Care System (Federal): LGBT Veteran Care
• DAV – LGBTQIA+ Veteran Gets Justice for Service-Related Injury
• MN Historical Society – LGBTQIA+ Communities in Minnesota: articles digital projects, oral histories.

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Office at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs strives to create and support a workplace where all employees feel they belong. To ask questions, discuss concerns, or give any suggestions for making the workplace more inclusive, email diversity.MDVA@state.mn.us.