To the editor:
I’m deeply saddened that someone who purports to be a Christian would send such an ignorant and hurtful letter to sponsors of Kewanee’s upcoming Pride Fest in an attempt to undermine its success. It is unconscionable to use religion as a shield for bigotry and bullying.
I applaud Mr. Thompson and Mr. Bond for speaking out and standing up for what is right, and the Kewanee Police Department for their efforts to ensure participants of this event are safe.
Individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ are now, always have been, and will always be a part of the community. We are your neighbors. We are your children. We are your friends. We are your cool aunts and uncles. We work. We teach. We heal. We serve. We worship. We are no different than you, and we deserve the right to be happy, to love, to be loved, and to be safe and secure in our communities. We deserve, as all beings do, humanity, grace, and empathy.
I have only best wishes for a safe, happy Kewanee Pride Fest.
Michelle Appell
Minneapolis, Minn.
