The pride banners will be up during June. Photos: Oliver Jacques.
Griffith Mayor Doug Curran says the installation of more than 20 colourful Pride Month banners along the town’s main street has attracted mixed feedback, but he has defended the decision as a show of support for an “underrepresented” group.
Pride Month, held each June, celebrates and raises awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTQ+) communities.
Griffith Council has installed banners featuring the words “courage”, “pride”, “acceptance” and “hope” on lightpoles along Banna Avenue, from the bottom block near Best & Less to the council chambers. They will remain in place throughout June before being removed.
Mayor Curran said the council had been approached by members of the local LGBTQ+ community seeking support and visibility.
“We don’t think it’s offensive to support an underrepresented group that doesn’t necessarily get support. Pretending that they’re not there by not having the banners up doesn’t benefit anyone,” he said.
He confirmed the banners were funded through the council’s marketing and information budget, describing the cost as minimal. He said those advocating for the initiative did not have an incorporated organisation that could raise funds independently.
Mayor Curran also noted the banners do not display any reference to LGBTQ+ groups or the council logo.
“We have had both positive and negative feedback about the flags. I understand there may be some in the community who may be against it,” he said.
Griffith businessman Kevin Foster, of Almet Engineering, is among those who have voiced concerns about the display.
“I think council is in place to further the commerce and infrastructure in the town, not for social engineering or to make social statements,” he told Region.
The banners are along both sides of the street in the restaurant precinct.
Mr Foster criticised the lack of community consultation before the decision was made.
“As a ratepayer, we should have a say in where our money goes,” he said. ”We shouldn’t be paying for something that doesn’t contribute to the infrastructure of the town.”
Councillor Curran said bringing the matter to a council meeting for debate may have become “ugly” and risked creating division within the community.
“There’s no community consultation when we put up Anzac flags,” he noted.
Another prominent Griffith resident, who asked not to be named, said the banners were forcing an ideology onto people and had upset some business owners along Banna Avenue.
However, Cr Shari Blumer said she viewed the display as an opportunity for reflection and understanding.
“I support all kinds of flags and representation of different parts of our community that are not always seen,” she said.
“Every time I see a new banner, it makes me reflect on the group.
“It’s not an official flag, it’s a banner promoting a part of the community. If people feel there are other groups not being represented, they can put forward their case.”
