June 2, 2023
Dear Licking County Board of Commissioners:
I am writing on behalf of all LGBTQ members and allies in Licking County and beyond, as well as the community group Newark Ohio Pride Coalition. Collectively, we are asking for the pride lights to shine on the Licking County Courthouse during the month of June, which is recognized nationally (and internationally) as pride month.
This request has been made at various times in the past. We hope that Licking County will move forward with the times and show its support for this important part of our community. It is now common to see pride lights shining on state and federal buildings, as a symbol of justice and support for all members of our society, regardless of their sexual or gender orientation.
We note that the lights are put on the building for events such as Breast Cancer Awareness, Heart Awareness, Peace Officer Memorial Day, Juneteenth and many others. The lighting of the courthouse is a sign from a powerful part of our community that they support and acknowledge the presence and importance of the event, cause, holiday, etc. For this reason, we ask that you light the courthouse to demonstrate the importance of our LGBTQ community, who often feel isolated in the more rural areas of our state.
There have been several proclamations for LGBTQ pride month from the presidents, dating back to Bill Clinton (Proclamation 7203) in 1999 naming this month of June for its relation to the ongoing presence, work, struggle, care and lives of our LGBTQ community. Columbus has been lighting its courthouse and administrative buildings for years. We, the undersigned, are asking you to light the courthouse as part of Pride celebrations. We would like to feel acknowledged as an important part of this community, which the lighting of the courthouse would point towards. It is not the final destination, but just one light along the road towards greater equality, inclusion and appreciation for the diversity of our society.
Sincerely,
(Signatures will be placed onto the letter through google docs and sent to the Licking County Commissioner via email, filling the below information is your electronic signature)
