First Selectman Mike Tetreau Hosts Historic Flag Raising

Over 100 people joined Town of Fairfield First Selectman Michael C. Tetreau at a historic LGBTQ Flag Raising Ceremony held in celebration of Gay Pride Month at Independence Hall, 611 Old Post Road, Fairfield on June 28 at 11 AM. This event ceremony had special significance as it is the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in New York City, the start of the gay civil rights movement.

Tetreau was joined by Congressman Jim Himes, State Representatives Cristin McCarthy Vahey, Laura Devlin and Brenda Kupchick, Judge of Probate Kate Neary Maxham, Town Clerk Betsy Browne Miller and State Senator Will Haskell. Members of the RTM, Board of Finance and Board of Education also attended.

The program was organized by Fairfield Patch Mayor John Brannelly, who served as emcee. Conor Pfeifer from the Triangle Community Center talked of the programs and services his agency provides to the LGBTQ community. The National Anthem was performed by Paul DiMauro of the Connecticut Gay Men's Chorus. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by town residents Nicole and Cheryl Camarato. The Rev. Curtis Farr, Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, offered an inspiring invocation. Rabbi Marcelo Kormis from Congregation Beth El also attended.

The Pride Flag was first hoisted by Tetreau and Brannelly. Then openly gay members of the LGBTQ community were invited to hoist the flag until it reached the top. The flag will be flown throughout the weekend.