CHEVIOT, Ohio — Communities big and small across Ohio are looking for ways to celebrate pride month. Some are finding ways to recognize it for the first time.
On Tuesday, June 7th, the Cheviot City Council voted 5-1 to pass a resolution declaring June as Pride Month in Cheviot. It’s a resolution that has stirred up a lot of noise since it was introduced back in May.
“The dividing of the two communities is not what we want,” said Brian Smyth, a Cheviot Councilman.
Smyth has been vocal about his opposition to the resolution. While he says he respects those in the LGBTQ community, he believes designating a month for just their community wouldn’t be fair. He says they already have enough support.
“There are many LGBT flags flying high in the air, as well as American flags and other flags,” he said. “Never heard of an issue.”
While there are residents who agree with Smyth, other residents and allies like Katie Ewing said Pride Month is needed.
“Pride and celebrating it is so important because a lot of people from that community for many, many years have put up with a lot,” Ewing said. “They’ve had to fight to be who they are, and I don’t think anyone should have to fight for who they are and just simply exist.”
Ewing was one of several people to go before the council to show their support for the resolution. She says it’s important to not only show American pride but to show your support of others.
“I’m very proud of my country and I’m also very proud to stand up for everyone who lives here,” she said.
Now that the resolution has passed, June is officially pride month in Cheviot. While this may be exciting news for residents like Ewing, she says there’s still work to be done.
“I’m telling people who don’t agree to come find out more about it,” she said. “If there (are) questions you have or more education that you may need on the topic of pride or the LGBTQ community, we’re here.”
