Buena Vista proclamation recognizing Pride Month draws both praise and objections

Mayor Libby Fay read a proclamation at the June 23 meeting declaring June 2026 as Pride Month in Buena Vista, praising diversity and encouraging residents to treat each other with “kindness, respect, and compassion.”

During the public‑comment period several speakers urged different responses. Brian O’Connell, who identified himself as living outside town limits, asked the board to table the proclamation and argued it had not followed his understanding of Robert’s Rules of Order, saying the proclamation should be “properly vetted” before ratification.

"You're actually marginalizing them further because you're not doing this in the correct way," O'Connell said, urging a delay.

Speaking for Buena Vista Pride Coalition, Paula Dillon thanked the trustees for issuing the proclamation and said official recognition sends an important message to LGBTQ residents and youth: “Pride Month recognition sends a clear message that every member of our rural Colorado community belongs, is valued, and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.”

Other commenters urged limiting proclamations on social issues, arguing that proclamations can divide community members or set a precedent for government recognition of many special-interest observances. Board members and staff discussed procedural authorities and the mayor’s prerogative to issue proclamations; trustees expressed both support for inclusion and concern about stepping beyond core municipal services.

The board did not rescind the proclamation at the meeting. Trustees agreed to discuss the procedural and policy questions raised about proclamations and public outreach at future meetings.