ST. LOUIS – St. Louis’ City Hall got a rainbow-themed makeover Tuesday night.
“LGBTQ people have made a strong difference in our city,” Recorder of Deeds Michael Butler said.
The event recognized three integral members of the St. Louis Pride community: Beth Gasparovic, Randy Rafter and Sister Mairy Godmother, all of whom were honored.
“It’s wonderful,” Mairy Godmother with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence said. “It’s amazing.”
The three members received a plaque from the recorder of deeds, a proclamation from the city, and a printout of the original deed from the first LGBTQ allied church in the city.
“It makes you feel proud that you can be who you are and be loved and honored for standing up for what you believe in,” Black Pride STL Executive Director Randy Rafter said.
Both Mairy Godmother and Rafter state that it’s an important time for LGBTQ members to feel seen, especially when their rights are being threatened.
“I think the political climate is stormy and uncertain,” Mairy Godmother said. “St. Louis has always been a kind of island of equality and diversity in the state of Missouri.”
Rafter wants to challenge LGBTQ members to vote and run for public office.
“It’s definitely something we want to tell everyone,” Rafter said. “You have to vote and get out and stand up for what you believe in.”
