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Public commenters object as Waukesha mayor proclaims June 'Bridal Month'
Summary
Several residents told the Waukesha Common Council on June 2 they oppose a mayoral proclamation recognizing June as 'Bridal Month,' criticizing it as unilateral and divisive; the mayor read the proclamation during the meeting, stressing inclusion and safety for LGBTQIA+ residents.
Several residents used the public-comment period at the Waukesha Common Council meeting on June 2 to protest a mayoral proclamation designating June as 'Bridal Month,' arguing the mayor acted unilaterally and that the proclamation elevates a small group rather than promoting unity.
"I am here tonight to protest a proclamation that honors and celebrates a small minority of people in this community based on their...life choices," said Annette Kugelich, who identified herself at the podium and called the proclamation "authoritarian" because she said it lacked council vote or community consensus.
Elizabeth Breuters, who gave an address, raised concerns about whether taxpayer funds would be used for any celebration tied to the proclamation and said she believed the action 'is not showing equality' to all residents. Kathy Briggs, another commenter, said governmental recognition should be reserved for those she called 'real heroes' and said she did not support adoption of the proclamation.
Mayor Alicia Halvinsleven read a proclamation that described June as a time "to recognize and celebrate the impact and history of LGBTQIA+ individuals locally, nationally, and internationally" and said the city should encourage residents to "eliminate prejudice wherever it exists" and to ensure LGBTQIA+ residents "feel valued, safe, empowered, and supported." The proclamation concluded: "Now, therefore, I, Alicia Halvinsleven, the mayor of the city of Waukesha, hereby proclaim June as Bridal Month in the city of Waukesha."
Commenters framed their objections as procedural and substantive: they noted the proclamation was issued without prior council discussion and questioned whether recognition would involve any public spending. The mayor and council did not record a separate council vote on the proclamation during the meeting; the proclamation was read as part of the mayor's address to the council. The meeting record shows the council later approved other listed agenda items and adjourned.
