Tarpon Springs issues Pride Month proclamation; public comment period includes vocal opposition and broad community support

The Tarpon Springs Board of Commissioners read and accepted a proclamation declaring June 2026 as Pride Month and heard extended public comment — much of it sharply divided over the recognition.

Mayor John Collins read the proclamation in the chamber and said the action is a recognition of residents, not a policy pronouncement. "I, John Collins, by virtue of the authority vested in me as mayor of the city of Tarpon Springs, do hereby proclaim the month of June 2026 as Pride Month," the proclamation text stated.

Public comment that followed was lengthy and often contentious. Pastor Victor McCluskey opened public comment saying he spoke from a religious perspective and criticizing Pride symbolism; his remarks included explicit condemnatory language directed at homosexuality. Another commenter, Alan Seiders, urged attendees to consider scriptural warnings. Those speakers framed Pride recognition as a moral wrong and said the city should not endorse it.

Residents and advocates responded. Ana Avila, a community organizer with Equality Florida, told the commission that state policies were increasing threats to LGBTQ people and said Tarpon Springs’ statement of support was "incredibly vital." Other speakers — including members of P‑Flag, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs and longtime local residents — described incidents of vandalism and intimidation (including a torn‑down pride flag at a church) and said public recognition helps make vulnerable people safer. "To see the excitement leading up to today is immense, and we are so grateful to be able to celebrate in a chamber like this," Equality Florida’s Ana Avila said.

A 17‑year‑old resident, identified in public comment as Abby Cole, told commissioners she found the meeting unproductive and said elected bodies should focus on agenda items rather than political debate. Several commissioners, including Mayor Collins, urged civility and said elected officials must represent all residents.

The board did not take a policy vote as part of the proclamation; the reading and acceptance of proclamations were treated as recognition by the commission. Commissioners emphasized governing for all residents and signaled plans to address related public‑safety and community‑education concerns going forward.

What’s next: Commissioners said staff will continue to monitor complaints and community safety concerns raised during comment, and the city will consider any appropriate follow‑up actions reported to staff.