Speaking at the Hillsborough County School Board during Public Comment on June 4, 2024.
The experience of running for office has been a true privilege for me. I’m honored to champion my supporters, donors, volunteers, friends, and neighbors. I am excited to share a moment of profound gratitude and celebration that I recently experienced.
On June 4, 2024, I had the privilege of speaking alongside members of the Hillsborough County LGBT Caucus and Equality Florida at the Hillsborough County School Board's public comment session. Together, we witnessed a historic acknowledgment as the School Board officially recognized LGBTQ+ Pride Month.
My name is Nathan Kuipers. I’ve been a Kossack since 2004, and in July, 2023, I filed to run for Florida’s House of Representatives. Please consider donating and learning more about my campaign at www.nathanforfl65.com.
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After 18 Years as a Kossack, I'm Running for Office in Florida.
1, 2 Florida’s Trending Blue. Amendments 3 & 4 opened the door.
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My Reddit AMA Today
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In previous years, the school board has gone forward with a proclamation of Pride month. The move to recognition is a result of an aggressive push by right-wing organizers to end acknowledgment of Pride month on any level. Governor DeSantis has responded to this section of his base by removing pride celebrations in favor of July 4th theming across the state. There were several citizens there to protest the proclamation, including some that disrupted proceedings. I recognized a few individuals from the last time I spoke to the School Board to thank them for continuing Pride month. They are serious, motivated individuals working to affect the change they want, and I vigorously disagree with them.
This recognition is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a powerful affirmation of the values of inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance that we strive to instill in our community and our schools. The acknowledgment of Pride Month by the School Board sends a clear message to LGBTQ+ students, teachers, and families that they are seen, valued, and respected.
Speaking at this event was a deeply moving experience. Standing alongside passionate advocates from the Hillsborough County LGBT Caucus and Equality Florida, I felt the strength and unity of our community. Our voices came together to celebrate this important step and remind everyone that there is still work to be done to ensure equality and acceptance for all.
For me, my own high school experience was shaped by my involvement with the Gay Straight-Alliance. As I told the school board, so many of these students come from unsupportive home environments. Educational institutions have always served as a bulwark against domestic abuse. Schools are a vital lifeline for vulnerable students with nowhere else to turn. Our community and the health of our students benefit tremendously from celebrating Pride month and providing support groups.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Hillsborough County School Board for their recognition of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Your decision to acknowledge and celebrate our community's contributions and struggles is a testament to your commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students and staff.
This event is a reminder of the progress we can achieve when we come together and advocate for change. I am deeply grateful to everyone who joined us in this effort and to those who continue to support the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.
Florida’s 65th district is fully served by Hillsborough County Public Schools. We have seen all over Florida where Moms for Liberty and other right-wing organizations have worked to turn our schools into a culture war battlefield. Our students deserve better. Our students deserve leadership that is focused on their safety, wellbeing, and future. Instead, incumbent Republican Representative Karen Gonzalez-Pittman has voted in favor of “Don’t Say Gay” legislation and banning books. I know we can and will do better.
Let's continue working together to build a community where every individual is celebrated for who they are. Thank you once again to the Hillsborough County School Board, the Hillsborough County LGBT Caucus, and Equality Florida for making this moment possible. Please make a donation to the campaign today so we can continue the front line fight in Florida.
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