A Missed Opportunity to Simply Acknowledge

June is here, and so is Pride Month—a time when towns across New Jersey take small but meaningful steps to acknowledge their LGBTQIA+ residents. A post. A flag. A moment of visibility. But in East Brunswick? Nothing. Not a word from the Township of East Brunswick or its mayor.

When the Brand of Inclusivity Goes Quiet

This is the same township—and the same mayor—that regularly speaks about the importance of inclusivity. It’s been a recurring theme in speeches, events, and campaigns. But when it came time to show even the smallest bit of support for a community that still faces discrimination and marginalization, the silence was deafening.

Other Towns Got the Message—Why Didn’t We?

Look around. Town after town across the state has acknowledged Pride Month in some form. Some raised flags. Others shared a message. Many simply offered a kind word. But the Township of East Brunswick and its mayor? Nothing.

It’s not because they forgot. It’s because they chose not to. And people are starting to ask why.

The Double Standard Is Hard to Miss

What makes it worse is that this mayor goes out of his way—bends over backwards, in fact—to recognize and accommodate every other group. Cultural holidays, community celebrations, religious observances—you name it, there’s usually a post, a picture, or a carefully worded statement. But when it came to Pride Month, suddenly there was nothing to say.

Is It Fear—or Ambition?

There’s speculation. Some think the mayor is afraid of backlash from certain groups. Others think it’s about politics—that he’s keeping his head down, protecting a future congressional run, and trying not to upset too many people at once.

Whatever the reason, the outcome is the same: silence where there should’ve been leadership.

It’s Still Early, But the Silence Is Loud

Pride Month has just begun. There’s still time for the Township of East Brunswick and its mayor to say something—to show up. But for now, they’ve made their choice. And in 2025, that kind of silence doesn’t go unnoticed.

Especially when every other town managed to find its voice.