The Hamilton County Democratic Party stands proudly with Mayor Tim Kelly’s decision to light up City Hall in celebration of Pride Month. This is more than a display of color, it is a visible commitment to equality, dignity, and shared humanity of every Chattanooga resident. Lighting up City Hall is a symbol of unity and a reminder that government should represent and support all its people, not just the ones who fit into a narrow definition of “acceptable.”
We reject the notion that inclusion is division, or that celebrating LGBTQ+ Chattanoogans somehow “politicizes” our values. Equality is not something to be feared. We believe our public institutions should reflect the full diversity of the people they serve.
At a time when many are trying to roll back hard-won rights, we commend Mayor Kelly for standing firm in support of inclusion, even knowing that leadership sometimes means withstanding backlash to do what is right. Thank you for sending a clear message: the city sees them.
The Hamilton County Democratic Party celebrates Pride Month with our LGBTQ+ neighbors, friends, and family. We affirm that diversity is a strength, not a threat.
And to those who call these actions and beliefs divisive, we ask: Who exactly are we excluding by choosing to include?
Nikwonn Robinson
Chair, Hamilton County Democratic Party
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Tim Kelly lit up City Hall in rainbow colors in a pathetic virtue-signaling gesture he says,
"in honor of national Pride Month" to show "we're a kind and welcoming people." Did he light up City Hall in red, white and blue for Memorial Day?
Mark Caldwell