The Department of Energy (DOE) recognized Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month with an employee educational event at its headquarters in Washington. The event – Beyond Marriage: The Next Chapter of Equality – addressed efforts to advance LGBT equality a year after the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision and the horrific mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando. The event was organized by DOE’s GLOBE, the Department’s employee resources group for LGBT employees and straight friends and allies, and the DOE Office of Economic Impact and Diversity.

In addition to welcoming remarks from GLOBE President Russell Ames and Vice President Tré Easton, the event featured keynote remarks by Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz and Deputy Secretary of Energy Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall. There was also a panel discussion moderated by National Black Justice Coalition Director Sharon Lettman-Hicks, including NNSA’s Director of Public Affairs Thom Metzger, Gill Foundation Vice President Gautam Raghavan, and licensed counselor and LGBT advocate Sean Lare.

In his comments, Secretary Moniz stated, "Continuing prejudice, bigotry, and sometimes violence are unequivocally unacceptable. It's true throughout society and, for us, it starts in this department. Gender, race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation: We welcome diversity and we pledge a supportive workplace for all."

Below are videos of Energy Secretary Moniz and Energy Deputy Secretary Sherwood-Randall speaking at the event:

Read the presidential proclamation from President Obama announcing Pride Month.