Kenosha County Human Services Committee rejects Pride Month resolution after split vote

The Kenosha County Human Services Committee on June 2 rejected a resolution to recognize June 2026 as Pride Month after a divided roll-call vote.

Supervisor Kirby introduced the resolution and told the committee she brought it forward because she "does have a queer child" and "sees the impact the hatred in the world that goes on," a reason she said compelled her to seek an official recognition. Several members of the public spoke in favor of the measure during the public-comment period, including Reverend Joy Williams Morales and Pastor Wesley Isbernezz.

Supervisor Knezz said the resolution is intended as "a testament from those in power in Kenosha County to our LGBTQ residents," describing it as an affirmation that the county is "a safe place to live and work." Chairman Stocker opposed the resolution on legal-ground concerns, saying, "Title VI is a discrimination issue, and you are not allowed to discriminate by sexual orientation, and this is a sexual orientation issue." Stocker characterized the resolution as running counter to the spirit of Title VI.

Supervisor Brown moved to approve the recognition; Supervisor Knezz seconded. The committee took a roll-call vote: Brown — yes; Knezz — yes; Decker — no; Stocker — no. The motion failed.

The transcript record shows the debate focused on competing views of the resolution's symbolic value for LGBTQ residents and whether the language conflicted with protections under Title VI. The meeting record does not show any amendment to the resolution or a referral to staff for redrafting. The committee moved on to other business and adjourned at 6:43 p.m.