Stafford supervisors adopt Pride proclamation after heated public comment

The Stafford County Board of Supervisors approved a proclamation recognizing June as a month of recognition and support for individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities on June 3, after extended public comment both supporting and opposing the measure.

The proclamation, titled P25-21, affirms that Stafford County “is dedicated to fostering the acceptance of all its residents and preventing discrimination and mistreatment based on sexual orientation or gender identity.” Chairman Deontay Diggs read the proclamation aloud during the meeting and invited the Stafford branch of the NAACP to accept it on behalf of the organization.

The vote followed a lengthy public-comments period during which speakers sharply disagreed. Supporters described the proclamation as an expression of inclusion and a way to reduce stigma for vulnerable residents. Terry Martin, who identified himself as a retired social worker, said the recognition “would assist youth as well as any LGBTQ+ adult with feeling valued and accepted.” April McCarthy, a military veteran, told the board that celebrating Pride “in no way detracts from” other holidays or recognition of veterans.

Opponents framed the item as an inappropriate government endorsement of private choices and raised concerns about perceived cultural impacts. Thomas Winston Whitstead asked why the county would “set aside a month to celebrate someone’s lifestyle choices,” while other commenters urged the board to focus on veterans, public safety, or development issues instead.

Board members debated the proclamation before the vote. One supervisor said they would not support the proclamation because they believed it was not a proper subject for government recognition. Vice Chair Tanisha Allen and Chairman Diggs both spoke in favor; Diggs said the action aimed to make residents feel seen and to address mental health risks faced by some in the county. The motion passed with four votes in favor, one no vote, one abstention and one member absent.

The proclamation does not create a program or allocate funding. The language recognizes local organizations such as Fredericksburg Area Health and Support Services (PAHAS) in the background text and encourages respect and inclusion, but it does not direct county departments to adopt new policies or expenditures. The board did not attach implementation steps to the proclamation during the meeting.

Public reaction at the meeting demonstrated sharply divided views in the county. Several speakers urged the board to move from symbolic recognition to concrete supports — for example, outreach, health resources, or educational programs — while others said symbolic gestures were unnecessary or inappropriate from local government.

The adopted proclamation will be part of the county’s official records. Any future follow-on actions (funding, programming, or policy changes) were not specified during the vote.