06/24/2026
Over the past several days, members of our community and beyond have expressed strong feelings about images and commentary circulating online regarding GP Pride.
We recognize that people will have differing views about aspects of the event, and respectful dialogue is part of any healthy community.
What we hope is not lost in the current conversation is the broader purpose and experience of the day. GP Pride was a joyful celebration that brought together families, students, alumni, faith leaders, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, community partners, and local law enforcement. Families chose whether and how to participate, and attendees described the event as welcoming, joyful, and meaningful.
We are deeply concerned that identifiable images of children, families, volunteers and performers are now being circulated widely on social media as part of an increasingly heated debate. These are our neighbors, our GPPSS students, and members of our community, not public figures. The individuals who participated in GP Pride, including the performers, did not attend expecting to become the subject of widespread online scrutiny, personal attacks, or commentary that questions their character, intentions, or professionalism.
Whatever our individual views about the event, we hope our community can agree that children should not become the focus of online controversy, and that disagreements about public policy should never devolve into personal attacks on the people involved.
We also hope that community leaders and public officials will model thoughtful, respectful dialogue and exercise particular care when sharing identifiable images of children and private citizens as part of public debate. Leadership carries with it a responsibility not only to encourage civic discussion, but also to protect the dignity and humanity of the people whose lives are affected by it. As this conversation continues, we ask everyone, regardless of their perspective, to remember the humanity of all involved and to engage one another with the respect and compassion that strengthen, rather than divide, our community.
As we look ahead, WeGP remains committed to creating community events that bring people together, foster understanding, and ensure that all members of our community feel seen, valued, and welcome.
