Branford Education Board Passes Resolution Supporting Pride Month

From the Branford Board of Education:

The Branford Board of Education passed a resolution at its June 7 meeting supporting June 2023 as Pride Month. Board members and parents spoke in favor of its adoption.

The mother of a non-gender-conforming child, who is not in school because of conflicts, said that support can save lives. She cited statistics about the high rates of suicide among LGBTQ+ kids – 45 percent have considered suicide and 14 percent have attempted suicide.

Bob Berger, the father of a transgender child, supported the resolution, stating that the national effort has an effect of local issues.

Board member Dr. Tim Raynor, who proposed the resolution, said it was important to go beyond the proclamation – “It supports students,” he said. It was a sentiment echoed by John Prins, board member and member of the Democratic Town Committee. Prins said that the bylaws support all students, not just LGBTQ+. “It needs to be supported by action,” Prins said.

Board member Cristy Cantu, also a member of the Democratic Town Committee, said, “It was moving to hear from parents and residents in Branford about the need to voice support for LGBTQ+ students. The presence of community members in tonight's meeting made all the difference in passing this proclamation.”

Meredith Gaffney, also a Board member, said, “Students do not feel safe. Our duty is to ensure their safety.”

Meaghan DeLucia noted that the resolution is “a first step toward doing more.”

Assistant superintendent Dr. Rachel Sexton spoke of her own difficult experiences as an “out” teacher:“I worry about where we are headed as a society,” she said.

Retiring Superintendent Hamlet Hernandez said, "All children should be seen… and the actions of adults should be thoughtful, meaningful, and actionable.”

In part, the resolution acknowledges Branford Public Schools’ diverse Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and/or Questioning (LGBTQ+) community and their enrichment to the school system and community. It affirms BPS’s commitment to supporting dignity, equity, and visibility for all, yet understanding that LGBTG+ persons still face discrimination. The resolution stresses the importance all districts and all communities to stand up and show support for all our students, staff, and families who are affected.