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Board approves LGBTQIA+ Pride Month proclamation; vote carried with one recorded opposed
Summary
The board approved a Pride Month proclamation recognizing LGBTQIA+ students and raising district support, with at least one director expressing concern about special recognition of specific groups and one member recorded as opposed during the consent calendar vote.
The Salem‑Keizer School District Board approved an LGBTQIA+ Pride Month proclamation during the June 10 meeting. Board discussion included expressions of support for students who identify as LGBTQIA+ and comments noting a sharp increase in anti‑LGBTQIA+ legislation nationally; several directors emphasized the need to ensure all students feel seen and supported.
Director Cottingham moved to approve the proclamation and the motion was seconded; during discussion Director Sandagiri and others spoke in favor citing safety and belonging concerns, and another director described the proclamation as an affirmation for students who have faced discrimination. One board member expressed hesitation about highlighting a single group and emphasized representing all students; during the roll call/voice vote the chair noted one opposed vote. The motion was approved and the proclamation adopted.
Board members who supported the proclamation cited local events and services for LGBTQIA+ youth (including the Green Carnation celebration), the district's anti‑harassment policies, and the aim of increasing sense of belonging for groups with documented disparities in attendance and belonging metrics.
Provenance: The proclamation was pulled from the consent calendar for discussion, taken up in the action items section, and approved by the board during the June 10 meeting.
