LGBTQIA+ Rally Saturday In West Chester Garners Boro Council Support

WEST CHESTER, PA —West Chester Borough Council supports the LGBTQIA+ community’s rally and march Saturday in downtown West Chester, Michael Stefano, council president, said in a Wednesday.

“Members of Borough Council voiced their support for the LGBTQ community, and this will be an event aimed at showing that support through pride in the community,” Stefano said in a Facebook statement. “West Chester is a safe and inclusive place for all.”

Stefano’s comment are in response to advocates planning a rally and march in the wake of another OutFest event being canceled after hate messages were sent to event planners and borough council.

Stefano said that he has been notified that online threats are being made towards individuals and organizations about the new event.

LGBTQIA+ advocates are hosting a rally and march on Saturday, Oct.1, outside the historic West Chester Courthouse, 2 N. High St.

The event begins at 2 p.m. and includes a three-quarter mile march followed by a party at Split Rail Tavern, 15 N. Walnut St.

“Borough Council unequivocally denounces threats of any kind towards anyone,” Stefano continued.

“Freedom of speech is a basic right afforded to all members of our community, whether I agree with you or not. Threats of violence and intimidation are not what our community stands for and will not be tolerated.”

The Saturday pride event is spearheaded by Eddy Foster, a Downingtown resident, and Chester County Commissioner Josh Maxwell.

The proceeds will go to the Trevor Project, a nonprofit whose mission is to end suicide amoung lesbian, gay, bisexual, trangender, queer and questioning people.