Broadview Heights Pride event gets pushback from some in community

Brad Hamilton
·2 min read
9

BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, Ohio (WJW) — It’s rare that a Broadview Heights City Council meeting makes news headlines for being controversial.

But earlier this week, it did just that.

Jenifer Speer runs the Brecksville Broadview Heights Pride Organization. On Monday, her and a group of about 10 members went before city council to discuss plans for their second annual pride festival this summer.

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Initially, Speer says she didn’t think much would happen.

“We were made aware that residents would come and maybe voice their displeasure. That’s fine, we are used to that,” Speer added.

But then, she says a lot happened.

“We came into a room that was clearly not friendly. We were not prepared for the messaging. The adamant messaging,” said Speer.

One of those to speak in opposition of the pride event during the meeting, Robert Kilo, disagrees with Speer on how the night went.

“I think what you saw at that meeting is nearly 100 Broadview Heights residents just asking the mayor, why didn’t you engage us to see if we would want this in our community,” Kilo said.

Kilo wanted to make clear that his feelings against the pride event come from a place of religious belief, not a place of hate.

“My message then and my message now is this good for Broadview Heights and I think it’s already showing it’s not.”

However, Speer believes this event is good for their community.

She added that some of the thoughts shared on Monday, felt personal.

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“We did not feel safe, I’ll be honest with you. When all of us left we were either on the phone with spouses, family or 911.”

When Fox 8 told Kilo what Speer just shared, he responded with this:

“That’s ridiculous. There was not any animosity towards people, there was passion on behalf of people,” said Kilo.

Speer says they have no plans to shut down their event, which will be hosted in Broadview Heights on June 8.

Fox 8 did try to connect with city officials for comment and information on this story but have not heard back.

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