4 Chandler mayor-council hopefuls show commitment to LGBTQ+ issues in debate

Eduarda Schroder

Submitted photo/ Eduarda Schroder

OPINION — On July 21, Chandler residents will vote for three City Council candidates and mayor of this great city.

On June 23, Chandler Pride hosted a debate among the candidates running for these seats. All eight candidates were invited to participate. Of note, four candidates responded and showed up to address issues of concern to the LGBTQ community and allies.

Matt Orlando (mayoral candidate), Angel Encinas (incumbent City Council candidate), Jane Poston (incumbent City Council candidate) and Cicely Rocha-Miller (City Council candidate) responded to questions regarding non-discrimination policy, public safety, supporting LGBTQ+ youth and attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion. Each candidate addressed questions thoughtfully, thoroughly and with a commitment to inclusion.

Chandler has been known to be a welcoming city, celebrating diversity among its residents. These candidates have shown their willingness to show up and commit to continuing that vision.

Chandler Pride is a local organization whose mission includes creating a community within Chandler for LGBTQ+ residents and friends and serving as a voice for LGBTQ+ residents. Chandler Pride’s mission includes providing a safe space for members of the community to come together.

In doing so, Chandler Pride shares with the city of Chandler the values of opportunity, community and belonging. The organization’s mission is to advocate for local, state and federal policies, practices and laws which advance the equity and inclusion of Chandler’s LGBTQ+ community.

Chandler Pride is designed to be a resource for LGBTQ+ people, their families, friends and allies, and to provide opportunities for engagement. 

Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.