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Bernards Township proclaims June LGBTQ+ Pride Month, honors YMCA partnership
Summary
The Bernards Township Committee on June 24 adopted a resolution recognizing June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and thanked the Somerset Hills YMCA for inclusive programming; committee members and residents voiced support for visibility and community inclusion.
The Bernards Township Committee unanimously adopted a resolution proclaiming June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and recognized the Somerset Hills YMCA as a partner in inclusion.
Committee member Anna McCarthy introduced the measure, saying the township is "a unique and vibrant community" and that local programming and pride banners "help make sure that the LGBTQ+ community and its allies are welcome and can be part of its mission of healthy living for all." McCarthy noted the YMCA’s local staff and programs as examples of the organization’s work in the community.
Mayor Fields and other committee members voiced support before the committee moved, seconded and adopted Resolution 2025-0232 by voice vote. After the vote, representatives from the Somerset Hills YMCA thanked the committee for the recognition. A YMCA representative said the acknowledgment reflects "a commitment to inclusion" and reaffirmed the organization’s work to provide welcoming programs and services.
Resident Brett Hodges of Basking Ridge used the public-comment period to thank the committee for the proclamation and described personal reasons for valuing local support for LGBTQ+ residents. Committee members said the township will continue to display pride banners and support partner programming.
The committee arranged a post-meeting photo with YMCA staff. No formal follow-up action was announced beyond ongoing partnership and programming coordination with community organizations.
