Residents of San Antonio are warmly invited to actively engage with the newly established LGBTQ+ Advisory Board at a public forum scheduled for Tuesday, June 17. The meeting is set to take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the International Center, located at Suite 303, 203 S. St. Mary's St., offering a platform for individuals to voice their concerns and suggestions on matters that affect their community and the wider city. According to an announcement made yesterday by the city's official news site, complimentary parking will be available for attendees after 5 p.m. at city-operated parking facilities.
The inaugural members of the Board, which was established in 2024, are slated to fully introduce themselves during the forum, coinciding with Pride month. "We are excited to introduce ourselves as the inaugural members of San Antonio’s formal LGBTQ+ Advisory Board," Board Chair Maria Salazar stated on the City of San Antonio official news release. "This forum will provide details of our future gatherings and how to access the board. We are committed to serving our community and this great city we call home." The event will feature welcoming remarks from Salazar and a speech by Judge Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez who presides over both the County Court-at-Law No. 13 and the Reflejo Specialty Court focused on domestic violence. Sign-ups for public speaking spots will commence when doors open at 5:30 p.m. and close at 6:30 p.m.
In addition to hearing from community leaders on pressing issues, the Board is also to issue a statement regarding Jonathan Joss, though details of the statement have not been disclosed as of press time. The forum is designed to be interactive, with opportunities for attendees to connect casually and enjoy refreshments after the structured program, underscoring the Board's commitment to fostering a supportive environment.
The LGBTQ+ Advisory Board’s 13 member count, with 10 district-appointed representatives and three mayoral appointees, serves to advise the Mayor, City Council, and City departments by providing insights on the issues impacting the city's LGBTQ+ citizens. They are also charged with engaging with the community to identify priorities and propose solutions that will work to augment the quality of life for all San Antonio residents. For those unable to join in person, virtual input will be accepted on the event's site until 5 p.m. June 17. More information about the Board and how to provide input can be found on the City of San Antonio official news site.
