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Fillmore proclaims June 2025 Pride Month amid divided public comment
Summary
The Fillmore City Council presented a proclamation declaring June 2025 LGBTQ+ Pride Month and heard multiple public commenters both supporting and opposing the proclamation during the public-comment period.
Mayor Christina Villasenor presented a proclamation declaring June 2025 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the City of Fillmore and asked representatives from local nonprofits to accept the document and speak about their services. Tess Allen of Diversity Collective Ventura County, a PFLAG representative identified as Celia, and Maria from 1 Step All of Us addressed the council and described programs and events for LGBTQ+ youth and families.
The proclamation recognizes Stonewall (June 28, 1969) as a historical touchstone and lists locally active organizations including Diversity Collective Ventura County, PFLAG Ventura and 1 Step All of Us. Tess Allen described services and events including a pride prom for youth and Ventura County Pride in August; Maria announced a Santa Clara River Valley Pride Brunch on June 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Celia described PFLAG’s peer-and-parent support and said the organization provides a “safe space” for parents and youth to learn and ask questions.
During the public-comment period, speakers divided sharply. Supporters said the proclamation helps youth feel seen and can reduce suicide and stigma. Steven Auclair argued the proclamation affirms dignity and noted nationwide increases in acceptance. Jasmine Vasquez, who said she came out this year, said the proclamation made her feel “seen and supported.”
Opponents said an official city proclamation endorses a political position and can conflict with residents’ religious beliefs. Diane Sutton, Jenny Medrano and Annette Sula described concerns that public endorsement pressures conformity, especially in schools, and urged the city to remain neutral. Lynn Edmonds, speaking in favor, said celebration reduces stigma and cited family members lost to suicide to argue for public recognition.
The council presented proclamations to the three nonprofit representatives; the meeting record shows the proclamation was read and presented, and multiple community members used their allotted public-comment time to address the council. No ordinance, resolution or regulatory action followed from the proclamation item itself.
