Madawaska Valley will continue to recognize June as Pride month, despite a delegation that asked its council to re-consider.
The decision was met with a mix of cheers and boos in a packed council chamber Tuesday morning.
The delegation was made by Rae Stanley and Noah Kluke. They both opposed council’s May 16 decision to recognize June as Pride month and show the rainbow flag on a digital sign.
Kluke said he felt the municipal government was overstepping its bounds and threatening his religious freedoms. He said he had a petition with more than 500 signatures of those who oppose Pride month.
Stanley expressed worry about the potential of a Pride parade occurring one day in Barry’s Bay. She said the delegation was not based on hate but was to criticize council for not having more public debate on the issue.
Stanley asked Coun. Mary Blank to rescind the motion she made on May 16, which led to Pride month being declared.
But, following the delegation, Mayor Mark Willmer asked if any councillor would like to make a motion.
When none spoke up, he said, “the resolution that was passed on May 16 will stand – and that motion declared June as Pride month.”