Today, June 13th, a reply from Mayor Clark was received by several residents who expressed their
disagreement on the decision reached by the city council to not raise the pride flag on the city
hall.
Since the reply comes from an official Newcastle City's email address, and it directly
expresses that "This email is a public record and may be subject to public disclosure.", I will
reproduce such message bellow:
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
I am aware that some people disagree with me and my attempt to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us. It has become all too easy to create silos and insulate them with negativity. I refuse to accept those silos. Instead, I chose to focus on the one symbol that signifies the freedoms we ALL enjoy. The US flag is that symbol. It has been bought and paid for by the sacrifice of countless numbers of men and women of all walks of life over the course of our history. I would never think of disrespecting their sacrifice by suppressing anyone's first amendment rights. In Newcastle, any person or group of people is free (and encouraged) to celebrate what is important to them. Therefore, while it is my responsibility to represent all the people equally, it is impossible to have everyone agree on what is important. The best thing the government can do is to stay out of people's lives. As I stated clearly in the previous council meeting, I support everyone equally. Everyone is an all encompassing term that includes the rainbow community but I will not be part of a government that tells people what to say, do or think.
Thank you again for writing.
Rob Clark
Robert Clark
Mayor, City of Newcastle
robertc@newcastlewa.gov
This email is a public record and may be subject to public disclosure.
While a reply is appreciated, it appears that the same
generic message was sent to everyone who expressed their disagreement with the Council's decision,
avoiding addressing the diverse concerns raised by different individuals.
While I appreciate
his acknowledgment of residents' concerns, I find several points in his message troubling and
inaccurate. Mayor Clark emphasizes the American flag as a symbol of unity and insists that raising
the Pride flag would create division. However, it’s important to recognize that unity has been
achieved through the struggles of marginalized communities, such as during the Stonewall Uprising
and the Civil Rights Movement, and is not yet fully realized for everyone.
Mayor Clark's
message also suggests that raising the Pride flag might suppress First Amendment rights and equates
it with endorsing hate groups. This comparison is deeply offensive and dangerous, as the Pride flag
symbolizes tolerance and inclusivity. The LGBTQ+ community has historically faced harassment and
violence, and the city's refusal to raise the Pride flag only heightens our genuine fears for safety
and acceptance.
Additionally, the argument expressed during the council's session that some
residents fear expressing disagreement with LGBTQ+ issues because of potential backlash is
concerning. There is no basis for equating the expression of queer identity with acts of hate. The
queer community continuously faces real threats, as evidenced by tragic events like the Pulse
Nightclub Shooting and the Charlottesville Rally.
Furthermore, many veterans are part of the
queer community and seek recognition and support. Colonel Edward Thomas Ryan's story, a decorated
army veteran who came out as gay in his obituary, illustrates the fear and prejudice faced by LGBTQ+
individuals, even those who have served their country. The city's decision not to raise the Pride
flag sends a message that the struggles and rights of the LGBTQ+ community are not acknowledged or
supported.
In conclusion, while diverse opinions and debate are essential, it’s crucial that
they do not deny the humanity and rights of marginalized groups. Emotions and reason must coexist
with empathy to create a truly inclusive and supportive community. I hope Mayor Clark and the city
council reconsider their stance and recognize the importance of raising the Pride flag as a symbol
of support and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community.
