Evesham Township council has announced a special proclamation that assures township inclusivity for everyone, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation.
During an April 13 meeting, Councilman Eddie Freeman read into record the proclamation, called “No one should be excluded in Evesham Township.’’
“Whereas certain governmental entities across the country, including the state of Florida, are implementing legislative policies that will prohibit a school district from encouraging classroom discussion about sexual orientation and gender identity for the younger students, the township strongly condemns any governmental sanctions of stigmatism against the LGBT community whether in our community, state or across the United States.”
Freeman then explained the proclamation’s significance.
“It was really important to me just being an out LGBT male that had to deal with stigmatization,” he said. “I (believe) it’s important that we take a stand and recognize students that may be experiencing the same issues in our community.”
Garden State Equality, an LGBTQ+ advocacy and education organization, accepted the township proclamation.
Mayor Jaclyn Veasy commended her fellow council members for supporting the proclamation and Garden State Equality for its continued efforts in advocacy and education for the LGBTQ+ community.
“We’ve worked hard here in Evesham to be an inclusive community,” she noted, “so I thank you for your education and what you do for advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community.”
In other news:
- Council approved a resolution authorizing an amendment of the agreement of sale with the Garden State Beagle Club Inc.
- Council also approved a resolution of support for the application of Enlighten Health & Wellness LLC to open a cannabis retail location at 781 Route 70 West in Evesham. The retailer will still need to take several steps before it can open.
The next council meeting will take place on Wednesday, May 4.
