Spaniard’s Bay councillor offers to donate pride flag for raising next year

By Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Olivia Bradbury

Discourse between Spaniard’s Bay councillors over recognizing Pride Month next year led councillor Ann Marie Singleton to offer to donate a pride flag for the Town to raise.

The matter arose at the July 14 public meeting as the result of a letter from a resident asking if the Town could acknowledge Pride Month, as other communities have done. The letter was sent during Pride Month, which is June, but was not addressed until that night.

“They had mentioned other neighbouring communities had events such as flag raisings, and community walks, and family and friend gatherings to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and community connection,” said Mayor Tammy Oliver. “This person is also interested in volunteering some time to assist in organizing or serving on a committee or getting something started off the ground.”

Councillor Darren Smith pushed back on the idea, arguing Pride Month-related events should not come out of taxpayers’ money. “What one’s choices are is one’s own responsibility. So I don’t think it should be on the backs of the taxpayers to have these kinds of parades really,” Smith said.”

“Well, Your Worship, I think, in my opinion, it’s very important to show all residents that they’re acknowledged and included,” said councillor Singleton. “And I think if we show it just by raising a flag, so be it.”

Councillor Sherry Lundrigan said she agreed with that one hundred percent. “They should be recognized. I don’t know if I agree for a month, but I agree one hundred percent. They should be,” she said.

Councillor noted June is also Men’s Mental Health Month, and shared statistics about suicide rates. “I don’t think it should be overshadowed by one’s sexuality,” he said.

Smith said everyone is already accepted in the community and the world. “You make your own choices, do what you want, and be happy, as long as it’s not on taxpayers’ backs,” he said.

Smith listed other things neighbouring towns are doing that taxpayer money could be used towards instead, such as placing garbage cans throughout the community and funding sports leagues. “If we’re going to jump on what other towns are doing and be followers, I’d rather be a leader, but for the things that really matter,” Smith said.

Singleton began to respond to Smith, but stopped, instead addressing Mayor Oliver. “I’m just going to bypass that one there, Your Worship,” Singleton said.

Councillor Debbie Newman said council should acknowledge receipt of the letter and make a proclamation during Pride Month next year. “Not because any other town is doing it,” she said, “but because we are a town and we do have members in our area who would appreciate what we’re doing.”

Smith asked whether a Pride Month proclamation would overshadow Men’s Mental Health Month.

Newman replied that council could make a proclamation to recognize Men’s Mental Health Month as well.

“You don’t think there’s any men that celebrate Pride?” Singleton asked Smith.

“No, no, that’s not the question,” said Smith. “I just want to make sure that taxpayers money is going to the right place.”

Singleton said she would personally buy a pride flag for the Town to raise, and asked for Smith’s thoughts. Smith replied that it was up to her.

“Your Worship, I’ll go ahead and make a note that I will donate a pride flag if that is the issue,” Singleton told Oliver.

Smith pointed out that he hadn’t said Pride Month is an issue, explain he was only trying to ensure taxpayer money is spent on town needs.

“I think this resident is just looking for recognition whether it be a signed proclamation or some signage on our website or Facebook page or whatnot,” said Oliver. “But this is certainly a discussion we can table till next year.”