Woodstock mayor doubles down on decision not to display Pride flags
Mayor speaks against Pride group, news media in lengthy speech to council
Despite concerns raised by an 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy group, Woodstock is sticking with a policy that will prevent Pride flags from being flown from municipal lampposts.
The Rainbow Crosswalk asked council for an exemption to the rule, passed unanimously by council in November, that limits banners hung on municipal lampposts to heritage or tourism purposes.
In a lengthy speech to council on Tuesday night, Mayor Trina Jones defended the policy and complained about how the group made its concerns known.
Jones also questioned the usefulness of flying the Pride flag in the western New Brunswick town..
One of the Pride flag banners that will no longer be allowed to fly from Woodstock lampposts. (Submitted by Amanda Lightbody)
"I think it is important for us all to take a step back and try and determine why a flag that is meant to unify appears to be having the opposite effect and is creating division in multiple ways," she said.
Jones said the flags were only displayed for six weeks annually, and the town is "not defined" by displaying Pride flags for such a short time each year.
"I caution anyone that thinks that simply flying a banner checks all the boxes and automatically makes us an inclusive community," she said.
Jones
addressed council for 15 minutes to defend the policy but refused to
take questions from reporters during a break or after the meeting. (Sam Farley/CBC News)
"If flying a flag had that much direct influence over the actions of our community members day-to-day, I'd have lots of flags flying every day."
Jones said she recognizes the importance of Pride flags, but real progress in society actually happens "because many people representing many minority groups took a lot of time to sit down with policymakers to build laws and policies that promote equity, fairness and inclusion."
She said Woodstock is a welcoming and diverse town, but Pride flags have proven to be "a very divisive issue that has multiple sides to the debate."
Despite opening her remarks with a vow to be transparent about all council decisions, Jones would not answer questions from reporters during a break or after the meeting. She said she would let her comments stand and reporters should listen and "soak in" what she had to say.
While the council meeting was live streamed on YouTube, Jones and council members stopped CBC News from recording it in person and objected to any photos being taken of council or the mayor.
Mayor questions group's use of social media
Jones also suggested the Rainbow Crosswalk hadn't brought its concerns to council properly, although she had just directed the town clerk to read aloud the letter the group did send to council.
"They have not directly communicated their concerns to us, nor asked to meet with us so they can share and discuss their concerns," Jones said.
"They have been dealing instead directly with the press and social media."
She said she originally asked council to look into its policy on banners flown by the town because there was no transparency and because producing banners had become a financial burden on the town because the number of requests for them.
Jones and the town's clerk have not responded when asked to clarify how many requests came in.
She said the genesis of the policy "had nothing to do with Pride flags," but she accepted the disappointment of the Rainbow Crosswalk.
"A neutral position was suggested by the special committee and accepted by council to ensure we are being fair and consistent with proclamations, banners, flags and lighting requests."
At the end of her speech, she did ask town staff to better define the "heritage" side of the banner policy. This was the only change Jones suggested.
When Jones asked if any other councillors had anything to add, Coun. Norm Brown said he agreed with the mayor's position.
No other councillors spoke, and council voted unanimously to accept the mayor's remarks.
The
council meeting was live streamed on YouTube, but Jones and councillors
stopped CBC News from recording it in person and objected to her photo
being taken. (Sam Farley/CBC News)
Last week, Rainbow Crosswalk president Amanda Lightbody told CBC News that by taking a neutral policy on banners, it was "a dog whistle for people who are a little bit bigoted." This analysis disturbed Jones.
"To insinuate any of us are homophobic or bigots is hateful and unfounded," Jones said, visibly upset as she spoke.
Pride group president not surprised by mayor's speech
When reached by phone after Jones's speech, Lightbody said she was not surprised by the mayor's statement, and "nothing has changed" in terms of the group's objectives.
"We're going to continue doing what we're doing," Lightbody said, adding that she will continue to advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community instead of going back and forth with the town.
When asked if Jones's comments might prevent the Rainbow Crosswalk from working with the town in the future, Lightbody said no.
"It's not, 'Are we willing to work with them,' it's 'Are they willing to work with us?'"
Lightbody said she didn't understand why Jones questioned the usefulness of Pride flags, and "belittling and minimizing" such a prominent symbol for the community speaks volumes.
Amanda
Lightbody, president of the Rainbow Crosswalk, said she was not
surprised by the mayor's speech but will continue to promote 2SLGBTQ+
issues in Woodstock. (Sam Farley/Zoom)
She also questioned why Jones critiqued the group speaking out on social media, since that is how the organization connects with the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
"We don't have a building that people can go to," Lightbody said.
"This is how we're able to connect to the community and keep abridge of all of the things that are happening… We constantly have to advocate for ourselves, because if we don't, things slide back."
Mayor tells reporters not to call her
Jones also took several shots at the news media, claiming coverage was inaccurate.
She was not made available for an interview with CBC News last week to answer questions about the policy and made it clear this would not be changing.
Jones welcomed interviews only if they were a "constructive conversation," but added,"If any of the press are simply looking for a 30-sound bite for me, please don't contact me for a followup on this."
She turned to the two journalists present as she asked the media to "refrain from calling me this week," and then went on to list her entire calendar for the rest of the week to show that she is busy.
Jones also suggested reporters should be covering a local basketball tournament instead of the banner issue.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
https://www.cbc.ca/listen/shows/maritime-noon/episode/15618349
Straight Flag in Chipman, Underwater Seal Encounter, Phone In: Paint Expert Jim White
Oct 22, 2018
The village of Chipman, N.B. has raised a straight pride flag. Why some people wanted it flown and why others want it pulled down. A photojournalist talks about his underwater encounter with a friendly seal. And paint expert Jim white takes calls.
Trust that I am not surprised by this revelation
She was not made available for an interview with CBC News last week to answer questions about the policy and made it clear this would not be changing.
Jones welcomed interviews only if they were a "constructive conversation," but added,"If any of the press are simply looking for a 30-sound bite for me, please don't contact me for a followup on this."
She turned to the two journalists present as she asked the media to "refrain from calling me this week," and then went on to list her entire calendar for the rest of the week to show that she is busy.
Jones also suggested reporters should be covering a local basketball tournament instead of the banner issue."
How would you interpret this?
A reply on this very thread.
Not just a simple Democracy.
Different rules.
Former CBC Journalist Doug James is the new Saint John Lancaster Green Party Candidate!!!
And what, CBC News went along with this request even though they had every right to record anything and everything said and done in a public meeting?
"Former CBC Journalist Doug James is the new Saint John Lancaster Green Party Candidate!!!"
Then I decided to run in the same election correct?
Comment by Marc LeBlanc.
Thanks for showing us who you are Woodstock. That explains the provincial education policy perfectly
Reply by David Amos.
How so?
Comment by David Amos.
Methinks the Mayor's MLA and former councilor Minister Hogan is having quite a hay day as well N'esy Pas?
Comment by james bolt.
Does Woodstock still use the Village Green to light the menorah?
Thats pretty public
Surprised the major allows it
Comment by Andrew Martin.
Lightbody "questioned why Jones critiqued the group speaking out on social media, since that is how the organization connects with the 2SLGBTQ+ community"....?
Thats not what the mayor was questioning, she questioned why Lightbody and her group never engaged directly with the town/council first, and instead of doing so they went directly to social media to complain.
Seems like Lightbody was only interested in making noise, not finding a solution.
Reply by Geordan Mann.
Exactly. Advocates like to deal only with media because they do not have to actually explain anything or engage in discussion. They simply want what they want.
Reply by David Amos.
Yup
Comment by Diana Roussel.
The mayor clearly doesn't want us LGBTQIA+ people in her town, or our disposable income I guess.
Reply by Andrew Martin.
Why? Because they're keeping the public space neutral? You forgot the "2S" folks, do you not want them in your community?
Reply by Roger devry.
atta girl
Reply by Geordan Mann.
You seem to read more into this that was actually stated. Why?
Comment by Graham McCormack.
Maybe Miss Lightbody and her group should take the banners that were offered to them and have local businesses display them. That would go a lot further to signify an ally and supporter than banners on town light posts.
Reply by Debra Weyman.
I think that is the plan. In the previous CBC article it said the flags were being returned and businesses were going to be approached to display them. The majority of people are allies and businesses will benefit from displaying the pride symbol. I always notice when a business has sticker on the door or window with an all are welcome here.
Reply by Graham McCormack.
Perfect, that would mean a lot more to me.
Comment by Roger devry.
the notion that life is fair and we are all equal is flawed
Reply by David Amos.
Oh So True
Reply by Diana Roussel.
so your solution is to encourage punching down on minorities? just trying to understand your wisdom
Reply by Roger devry.
interesting conclusion indeed
Reply by Landers Haughten.
Why?
Reply by Geordan Mann.
I don't know - can you explain why citizens have to support advocates through their taxes instead of enjoying better services? Poor government maybe? Seems unequal to me. You can probably come up with many other inequities if you try. It does not mean it is right but no denying that "fairness" and "equality" are idealist notions to the human equation.
Comment by james bolt.
no amount of fabulous can sway his iron will
Reply by David Amos.
???
Comment by Debra Weyman.
At this time, the pride flag and what it represents has greater importance than it has in years. For Woodstock to make this decision right now amidst the transphobic policies being passed in the US and here in Canada by several provinces is wrong. This mayor's comments that a flag does not represent inclusion and instead creates divisiveness shocks me. She is playing right into the hands of the social conservatism and right wing politics that is starting to plague us here in New Brunswick and right across the country. The pride flag is needed as a symbol more than ever. As a parent to a queer teen, I want my daughter to know that wherever she goes she is accepted and respected. She is out, actively lobbying for LGBTQ+ rights and she proudly wears the pride symbol through jewelery, pins or clothing. It means a great deal to her to be able to that and not worry about being judged or harmed. I am sorry for the town of Woodstock and their regressive decision. It says a great deal about the mayor and council's attitudes to a very imporant issue.
Reply by David Amos.
I strongly disagree
Reply by Debra Weyman.
Your words are so eloquent. You disagree but I have no idea why.
Reply by Debra Weyman.
At least you explain why you disagree. Thank you. It is not about an inherent right in my opinion. It is about a society that is open and accepting and demonstrates inclusion. We make decisions for social reasons and for a group facing bigotry and a great deal of phobic regressive policies, it is needed in my opinion.
Reply by David Amos.
Try surfing the Internet with my name
Reply by David Amos.
I thought the PM wants to call us "Peoplekind"
Reply by Debra Weyman.
We are a secular country. Religion has no place in politics in Canada. Religion is a choice and everyone has a right to their values and beliefs. That however, they should not impact political decisions. Religion and state are separate.
Reply by David Amos.
Amen Perhaps you should checkout my lawsuit against Cardinal Law et al in Beantown back in 2002
Reply by Roger devry.
don't support that
Reply by David Amos.
Nor I
Its just one of the many reasons I ran against him
Reply by Graham McCormack.
I think it is great what your daughter is doing and that you support her. Could you please tell me how those banners on the lamp posts shows that she will be accepted by other residents and businesses within the town?
Reply by Landers Haughten.
The colour of a flag shouldnt entitle anyone or group to any special treatment regardless
Reply by Debra Weyman.
The pride flag or colours are a symbol of acceptance. For a group that is often marginalized and currently under attack, with many new regressive policies being implemented, that symbol means acceptance. You would not display a pride symbol if you were not an ally. It demonstrates a show of support. I know it means a great deal to my daughter. I can't speak for her and she is a gifted communicator, so perhpas I will ask her after school and update my comment then.
Hidden comment.
Reply by David Amos.
Ditto
Reply by Debra Weyman.
Please reconsider your language. Is being straight a lifestyle? Being LGBTQ is not a lifestyle. It is part of who someone is, their identity or sexuality. The pride flag is not a selected symbol to be displayed at all times but instead to be flown at certain times to demonstrate acceptance and inclusion. Even if being LGBTQ is not a lifestyle, it is however becoming less safe to be out and current attitutes and policies are creating a more difficult enviroment. For this reason the pride symbol is more necessary than ever.
Reply by Cindy Sheppard.
Being gay is not a "selected lifestyle" any more than being straight. Did you choose your sexual identity? Did you make a spreadsheet of the pros and cons of each and make a choice? Neither did gay people. It's not a "selected lifestyle," it's simply who they are, as, you know, humans, as individuals, as people.
Reply by Roger devry.
the choice of sexuality is not a lifestyle choice however the manner selected to display it certainly is....
Reply by David Amos.
Interesting editing eh?
Comment by David Amos.
Methinks folk should listen to CBC N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/listen/shows/maritime-noon/episode/15618349
Straight Flag in Chipman, Underwater Seal Encounter, Phone In: Paint Expert Jim White
Oct 22, 2018
The village of Chipman, N.B. has raised a straight pride flag. Why some people wanted it flown and why others want it pulled down. A photojournalist talks about his underwater encounter with a friendly seal. And paint expert Jim white takes calls.
Comment by Douglas James.
"While the council meeting was live streamed on YouTube, Jones and council members stopped CBC News from recording it in person and objected to any photos being taken of council or the mayor."
And what, CBC News went along with this request even though they had every right to record anything and everything said and done in a public meeting?
Reply by David Amos.
Should we feel bad about this???
Reply by Douglas James.
Only if you believe it is important to live in a democracy.
Reply by Roger devry.
how is this not democracy please
Reply by David Amos.
Howcome they promoted you when you ran for public office but never mention my name?
Reply by Douglas James.
I don't know what you are talking about David.
Reply by David Amos.
Its Mr Amos to you We are not friends
Comment by Douglas James.
The real issue here is not the Pride flags, it is the assault on democracy by the Mayor. A certain distasteful kind of politics appears to be seeping across the border into Canada.
Reply by Roger devry.
how is this an assault on democracy please
Reply by David Amos.
What planet are you from?
Reply by John Raymond.
Why can't we have a straight Flag as well. That idea has been shot down year after year, which is an assault on democracy.
Reply by David Amos.
Talk to the folks in Chipman
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/straight-pride-flag-1.4872572
Reply by Douglas James.
It is an essential right in a democracy and a free and open society to allow the public, including the news media, to attend, record, take notes and report on the activities of elected governments in an effort to hold politicians accountable for their actions. While there are limitations to the issue of video recordings i.e. courts, the Canadian Parliament (which provides its own limited coverage), I know of no authority given to Woodstock Town Council that would allow this freedom to be restricted.
Reply by Rich Hatfield.
Canada is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy.
Not just a simple Democracy.
Different rules.
Reply by Douglas James.
A democracy is a democracy. The fact that Canada is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy has no bearing on the issue at hand. There are no 'different rules' that apply.
Reply by David Amos.
You worked for CBC Correct?
Reply by David Amos.
Check out Rule 55 of Federal Court then explain democracy to me real slow
Reply by David Amos.
Rule 55 In special circumstances, in a proceeding, the Court may vary a rule or dispense with compliance with a rule. SOR/2004-283, s. 11
Reply by Roger devry.
and this is a threat to democracy..... seems you are the only one making a fuss about this. Even this broadcaster is not
Reply by Douglas James.
I have made no comment on the Pride flag issue.
Reply by David Amos.
Nor I but we both yap about Democracy
Reply by David Amos.
Furthermore Free Speech is a serious issue and when my first response to you went "Poof" I saw red
Reply by David Amos.
Wow don't tell me that the narrative is not being controlled Bigtime
Comment by John Raymond.
This Mayor is correct.
Comment by David Amos.
I wonder if the Mayor has read my email yet
Comment by Glenn Miller.
Next election Vote the mayor out.
Reply by Roger devry.
or re-elect if that suits one better
Comment by Ralph Skavinsky.
Great decision..Woodstock council...good to see the dog wagging the tail again
Reply by David Amos.
I concur
Comment by Jay Schuster.
Great decision by this mayor
Reply by David Amos.
Ditto
Comment by Roger devry.
the self entitlement of some Canadians is so joyful
Comment by Don Corey.
Well done by the mayor! It's refreshing to see a political leader with good morals/principles, judgement and intestinal fortitude.
Reply by David Amos.
Welcome back to the circus
Reply by David Amos.
Interesting news
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/alberta-ahs-transgender-policies-danielle-smith-1.7186280
Reply by David Amos.
Reply by David Amos.
I loved this
Comment by Shannon Hallett.
Not a good look, Woodstock. How embarrassing.
Reply by Roger devry.
looks pretty shiny to me
Comment by David Will.
You can support the community and not fly their flags 365 days a year.
Reply by David Amos.
Of course
Comment by Thomas Me.
Critical thinking is too hard for status quo NB'ers.
Reply by Bill Biggs.
How so?
Reply by Ralph Skavinsky.
Depends on what road you are travelling down professor Tom
Reply by David Amos.
I thought he was a Major