(La Porte, IN) - A pride flag was given to the city of La Porte last night.  The flag was presented by Elissa Affeld of La Porte.

 

June is Pride Month.  “What does pride mean?  To me, pride is a time where I can promote and reflect on self-affirmation, equality and visibility as a member of the LGBTQ-Plus community,” she said.

 

Affeld went on to say LGBTQ members suffer from much higher rates of homelessness, mental health and substance abuse issues because of lack of acceptance by society and Pride Month is a time to reflect on those struggles.  “We hope to see this flag fly during Pride Month as a symbol to those in our community that the City of LaPorte is not only diverse but accepting and inclusive,” she said.

 

Affeld is a member of the city’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee.  “Thank you for your efforts and commitment in making La Porte a better place,” said Mayor Tom Dermody.

 

Last year, City Councilman Roger Galloway came under fire for stating during a public meeting the lifestyle of the LGBTQ community goes against The Bible.  Galloway joined several members of the city in helping to hold up the flag during a picture taking session last night.