LGBT Pride Month color run/walk near base open to public June 22

Events like fun runs/walks and 5Ks are held often at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, but one taking place June 22 will celebrate diversity, inclusion and respect in the workplace.

The LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) Awareness Month Special Observance Committee will host a free 5K fun run/walk on June 22, starting at 8 a.m. at the Rod and Gun Club, Hebble Creek Road, Area A. The area may be reached by turning onto Communications Boulevard from Ohio 444, next to Twin Base Golf Course. Colored powder will part of the fun, so participants are encouraged to wear white T-shirts.

The public and base community are invited to participate. June 29 has been set as the date in the event of a rainout June 22.

“We’re talking diversity and inclusion when we talk about LGBT Pride Month,” said Master Sgt. Martin Venegas, an LGBT ally and one of the event’s organizers. “This is something the Department of Defense has put an emphasis on. With the Air Force being as diverse as it is, it is important we observe this special month – no matter your sexual preference or lifestyle.”

A diverse workforce is stronger because of individuals’ differing perspectives and experiences, he said.

“When you put them all together, they make the Air Force what it is,” Venegas added.

Holding events like the LGBT Pride Month 5k fun run/walk makes people feel like they belong, he said.

“You are accepted across the board – bigger picture – because you are a valuable member of what we are accomplishing as an Air Force,” Venegas continued.

But he said he doesn’t want people to think it takes a special event to get people together and headed in the same direction.

“My hope is that one day we look back on what we are doing now and it has become mainstream – something that we don’t think about; it’s what we do every single day,” Venegas said.

He cited the civil rights movement as a comparison and inspiration for how to interact with the LGBT community.

Venegas said he is proud to be considered an ally.

“If I am not lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender and strive to be inclusive and respectful of those individuals who are, why can’t everyone else? People are people, and the biggest things we have to talk about are dignity and respect,” he said. “Embracing people for who they are will get them to do what you need them to do for the Air Force and the mission.

“No matter who you are, no matter what your beliefs are, you are a person who should demand and receive respect, period,” Venegas said. “No one should be treated differently for their personal lifestyle. Your personal lifestyle does not tell me who you are as a professional.”

He encourages everyone to attend the June 22 event.

“It’s free, it’s good exercise and you will get to network with different people,” he said. “Show your pride in who you are, in your community and in your fellow Airmen. Pride is pride. Pride is a great word that says it all.”

For more information, contact Venegas at 904-2968 or martin.venegas.1@us.af.mil; or Tech. Sgt. Michael Seery at 257-6699 or michael.seery.1@us.af.mil.

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