Amid Pride Month, NC's LGTBQ+ pioneers honored at governor's mansion

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- As Pride Month continues, Governor Roy Cooper honored some of North Carolina's LGTBQ+ pioneers.

He held a reception at the Executive Mansion to celebrate some of the state's 'queer elders' who fought for equal rights years ago and continue the fight to this day.

The event was meant to draw attention to some of the unique health challenges that queer people face as they grow older.

This stems from things like missed opportunities for employment, housing in their younger years, or higher risks of mental health issues.

"I never want anyone to feel as I did as a young person. I never want anyone to not like themselves," Rep. Allison Dahle (D) said, "and I want all LGBTQIA North Carolinians to know they are loved and cherished by me. You will always have a voice of an LGBTQIA person as long as I am in the General Assembly."

The Carolina Aging Alliance also spreads awareness about some resources they offer for older LGTBQ+ adults in the state, specifically affordable and safe housing.

WATCH | Youth Pride Association advocates for LGTBQ+ students' mental health

Many Pride events celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and equality with a focus on acceptance and advocacy are happening this month.