Pride Flag Up All Weekend in Easton

A historic event for LGBTQ civil rights took place in Easton on June 26, 2020.

In observation of June being National Gay Pride Month, Town of Easton First Selectman David Bindelglass held a historic first #Pride flag raising ceremony at Easton Town Hall. Dr. Bindelegass was joined by Easton State Representative Anne Hughes, Fairfield State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey and other community leaders. The ceremony was held outdoors and people practiced social distancing by wearing masks.

Bindelglass said, "It is important that we celebrate our diversity in this town and our understanding of each other as the individuals that we are regardless of our backgrounds. This flag belongs, here we belong here! We are all together in this and we are a wonderful community as such."

State Representative Anne Hughes spoke, "It is a sign of inclusion and welcome, no matter who you, what your gender expression is and your sexual identity is, we welcome you to live out loud and in confidence and this is a symbol of that acceptance and invitation that this is what Easton stands for. I am so proud as a State Representative to represent everyone in Easton and beyond."

Easton resident Elliot Leonard noted that Friday was the five year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that legalized gay marriage nationwide. Leonard announced that he and his husband Dr. Roger Litz were celebrating their 50th anniversary the following day. He declared that "Elections matter."

Bindelglass was presented the Pride flag by local LGBTQ activist John Brannelly, who noted members of his family members lived in Easton for decades. Dr. Whendi Cook was invited to play the Cyndi Lauper song "True Colors" with her son Sean and the crowd joined in. Bindelglass announced the flag will be up all weekend long for residents and visitors to see.