I’m a straight man who’s lived in Lewis County most of my life. Like many here, I was raised to work hard, care for my family, treat others with respect and do what’s right — even when it’s uncomfortable. That’s why I feel the need to speak up now.
In recent years, our LGBTQ neighbors have faced growing hostility. In 2023 alone, four LGBTQ+ advocacy spaces in Lewis County were vandalized overnight, including the Chehalis Friendship Fence, splashed with black paint. A home with a Pride flag had its windows smashed. A “Lewis County Welcomes Everyone” sign was torn down days after going up. Then, at Centralia’s Pride Festival, a group of neo-Nazis showed up to intimidate people peacefully celebrating who they are. It’s not a political debate — it’s targeted harassment. And it’s wrong.
To make matters worse, some local leaders have fueled the fire with rhetoric painting LGBTQ+ visibility as a threat. These words have consequences. They embolden acts of hate and make it harder for people to feel safe in their own hometown.
But there’s another side to our story — and it deserves recognition. Local business owners hang rainbow flags in their windows. The Centralia Downtown Association promotes Centralia Loves. Teachers and school staff who create safe, welcoming classrooms. Neighbors who stand up publicly or quietly offer a word of support. Organizers of the Lewis County Pride Festival, who, even after being threatened, showed up again with joy and courage. That’s the Lewis County I want to live in. And I believe most of us do too.
Pride Month isn’t about special treatment. It’s about visibility. It’s a way to say to LGBTQ people — many of whom have lived here all their lives — that they don’t have to hide who they are to belong. That they deserve to be treated with the same respect and safety we all want for our own families.
If you’re straight like me, your voice carries weight. Use it. Support can be as simple as not laughing at a cruel joke, speaking up when someone spreads misinformation or letting someone know you have their back by showing up.
You don’t have to agree with everything to believe in basic decency. And if you’re a person of faith, remember: Jesus consistently stood with the marginalized. We’re called to do the same.
This June, when you see a Pride flag, think about what it means to those who’ve been told they don’t belong. Think about the kind of community we want to be. And think about the people already showing us how to get there.
I want to be more like them. Don’t you?
Matt Evans
Centralia
