Pride Crosswalk stirs up controversary with current Mayor

Crosswalk Controversary

MARYLAND – Pride has been a topic of controversy lately in Salisbury.

The current Mayor of Salisbury Randy Taylor has stated the LGBTQ+ crosswalk doesn’t represent a balanced community. Representatives from PFLAG who said they would not be in attendance tonight and for good reason.

Last month Mayor Taylor decided to cancel the Pride Flag raising ceremony which caused a stir in the downtown area. Now, he is considering the removal of the crosswalk saying in part quote-
“I am a fan of public art but my view is it should be inclusive, hopefully reflective of our history, be inspiring, uplifting, and avoid singular political issues.”

PFLAG Executive Director Mark DeLancey said this was a time to take a step back. “The City Council meeting tonight needs to be for the community and for the public…Tonight, I really want to make sure that the voices are heard throughout the community and the concerns citizens that there are without any influence from PFLAG… PFLAG is just the organization, and we want to make sure we are there to support the people that need it.”

Community members who were headed to the meeting, such as K.T. Tuminello, had strong opinions. “So I’m here to fight for the city’s cultural art. It’s in my opinion if those crosswalks disappear, then that means all artwork on city property is fair game, and that one man with zero art experience, will now be in charge of what he considers to be good art, and what deserves to stay and what deserves to go. Well, that’s not the case because we do have a Public Art Committee, full of experts to advise the government. He refuses.”

Mark also added that hope is that no matter what is said at the meeting, the community is supported in whatever way they need.

Following the meeting Monday evening, WMDT News reached out Councilwoman Michele Gregory who said she doesn’t anticipate anything official unfolding until next Monday’s work session.