GALION—Galion resident Samantha Davis made an impassioned plea at Tuesday’s City Council meeting for the city to step up and support diversity and Inclusion:
“In times like these, visibility and Inclusion are of utmost importance. Our population is changing at a rapid pace. Bipac individuals make up 36% of the population. Of those identifying as part of the LLGBTQ-plus, our community is 8%. Currently, 10% of the GenZ population identify as being part of the LGBTQ-plus population. Both the Bipac (Black, indigenous, and people of color)and LGBTQ-plus populations face discrimination on a daily basis. It is unimaginable to think of someone to be thought of as “less than” for their identity.”
Davis suggested the Council consider placing a progressive pride flag in a prominent place in Galion.
Councilwoman Kara Ault told Davis that Galion had created an ordinance in 2019 putting protections in place and denouncing hate and discrimination in Galion.
While Davis said she appreciated that effort but noted that young people, coming into their identity, don’t care about ordinances.
“They want to see a symbol that tells them they are safe and welcome here in Galion. I ask that we follow cities like Seattle and Philadelphia (two of the first cities) to fly a flag to show solidarity. I am requesting we display the progressive pride flag. The colors represent so many people in our community. This flag allows everyone to contemplate its meaning and representation. But it does make something very clear to our own community and to those visiting us— everyone is welcome in Galion, and hate has no home here,” Davis said.
Davis asked the Council to consider placing the flag before June 1st, the beginning of Gay Pride Month.
Councilwoman Melissa Frank-Elwell told Davis that the Council would need to research local and state regulations regarding where the city can fly the progressive pride flag.
Ideally, Davis wants to see the flag on the square, but all possible locations are open to discussion.
Davis, originally from Columbus, lives in Galion with her husband and daughter. She and her husband are organizing upcoming voter registration events. Davis is gathering the required signatures to be placed on the November ballot for a Council At-Large seat on the Galion City Council.
In her final words to the Council, Davis expressed her recommendation for Mayor Tom O’Leary to resign, telling the Council: “If he won’t step down on his own, I suggest you hold a no confidence vote.”