SALISBURY, Md. – Mayor Randy Taylor's decision to cancel a planned Pride flag raising ceremony has left business owners at Salisbury Plaza frustrated.
Nicole Blackwater, owner of Blackwater Pharmacy, believes the mayor's decision contradicts the city's goal of unity.
“This is hypocrisy. We just opened Unity Square, a park that is supposed to be built on community, unity and inclusion for all,” Blackwater said. “This is a blatant exclusion of marginalized groups that our community has fought so hard for.”
Management opposition
Administrators for the Downtown Salisbury Business Alliance posted on Facebook: “The founders of the Downtown Salisbury Business Alliance are deeply disappointed and strongly disagree with Mayor Randy Taylor's recent decision to deny the display of the Pride flag in our area.”
Soul Yoga owner Lauren Gilmore said this sparked a movement for business owners to fly the Pride flag in their establishments.
“He's entitled to his opinion, but I, as a business owner, am entitled to my opinion, and that's why I hope other businesses choose to fly their own flag and loudly show people that we're an accepting place,” Gilmore said.
But while business owners are flying their own flags, they say it's still important that Mayor Taylor reconsider his decision and allow them to fly the Pride flag.
“We're very concerned that people will start to think that downtown Salisbury is an unsafe place for anyone,” Blackwater said, “and we want to make sure we show that we're here for everyone, we're here for marginalized communities.”
Other businesses in the plaza also spoke out in support of the plan to foster a safe space for the LGBTQ community.
“It's hypocritical to build 'Unity Square' and then try to exclude a group of people within a week of opening,” Brian Whipple, owner of Larking Class Skateshop, said in a statement.
He added that at his store, “That flag will hang here forever and everyone from all backgrounds (with a positive attitude) will always be welcome.”
Two Scoop owner Nicole Rogers expressed her frustration in a statement: “As a downtown business owner, I am deeply saddened that we have to make this statement. I have always been proud of the inclusive spirit of our city and have cherished having a business here, but the Mayor's recent decisions and statements have led me to question whether the city in which I operate still aligns with my beliefs of acceptance and unity.”
“Two Scoop will continue to be a safe space where discrimination, bigotry, sexism and racism are not tolerated. Our newly constructed 'Unity Square' symbolizes our commitment to these values and it is our hope that we can all come together and truly embody the principles it represents,” Rogers added.
Mayor Taylor, in a statement, stood by his decision not to permit the event. “In the bigger picture, this is not an anti-PFLAG stand, just a recognition that as with all events, we as a city need to remain neutral. The good news is that Brett Davis of Davis Strategies has suggested to PFLAG that they begin the event with their flag on Carroll Street instead of 200 yards away. We wish them the best of luck with the event and parade!!” Mayor Taylor said.
The Future of Pride Month
As the battle over the flag continues, Blackwater said downtown businesses need to come together now more than ever.
“I will stand up because I have the privilege to do so and I will continue to do so, but I need others to stand up with me,” Blackwater said.
