Several Cambridge city councillors have shared their thoughts following Mayor Jan Liggett’s contentious decision to halt a teenager’s speech at a local Pride event last week. In separate social media posts, councillors Scott Hamilton, Sheri Roberts, and Corey Kimpson emphasized the importance of respecting the voices of young individuals and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Kimpson stressed the significance of valuing the perspectives of young people and providing them with opportunities to engage in discussions about their communities and future aspirations. She highlighted the collective responsibility to ensure all residents feel heard and respected.
City councillors in Cambridge were contacted by CBC News for their input on the incident involving Liggett interrupting 17-year-old Sophie Mills during her speech, but responses are pending.
During the event on June 1, Liggett intervened as Mills referenced a past controversial Facebook post by Coun. Adam Cooper. Liggett requested Mills to omit the mentioned part from her speech, citing a need to maintain decorum.
Coun. Roberts expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of treating young individuals sharing their experiences with dignity and respect, regardless of differing viewpoints. Kimpson acknowledged the city’s commitments to diversity and inclusion but stressed the necessity of continued efforts for progress.
Coun. Earnshaw lamented the division caused by the incident, urging for constructive dialogue and compassion to move forward positively. Liggett issued a 10-minute video response, defending her actions as aimed at preserving the event’s unity and emphasizing the need for understanding amid differing opinions.
Mills clarified that her speech was not reviewed by city staff, contradicting Liggett’s statement. Councillors Hamilton and Kennedy criticized Liggett’s actions, with Hamilton apologizing to Mills for the ordeal and expressing gratitude for her courage in speaking out.
Kennedy underscored the importance of genuine support and accountability for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, urging for a city where all individuals feel safe, respected, and valued. Kennedy praised Mills for openly sharing her experience and hoped the incident would prompt reflection and positive change.