Reaffirmation of the Statement on Community Inclusiveness
Hanover's Board of Selectmen are aware that a PRIDE flag hung in Hanover High School in support of PRIDE Month was regrettably torn down and discarded last Friday. With that in mind, we recognize that we have an opportunity to turn a hurtful incident into a unique moment for reflection leading to growth. As such, we reaffirm our September 14, 2020 Statement on Inclusivity, specifically our commitment to the Hanover community, especially those who identify as LGBTQ+, to treat everyone with respect, dignity, and kindness.
PRIDE is about visibility and solidarity. These are concepts that now, more than ever, communities of all genders, orientations, races, ethnicities, and abilities must continue to work towards. Hanover High School's choice to display the PRIDE flag, and to continue doing so, is a visible reminder of our commitment as a Town to the recognition and inclusion of our LGBTQ+ community members. We all have a role to play in fostering that recognition and inclusion, be it through self-reflection, education, or other means that work for us as individuals. In furtherance of creating spaces to identify our own roles, and in recognition and support of our LGBTQ+ community, we would like to propose a partnership with community organizations like Hanover PRIDE and the Hanover Unity Counsel to host an annual PRIDE celebration and commemoration starting this year.