Nampa residents debate Canyon County Pride Festival during public forum

During the regular council meeting held on May 19, 2025, in Nampa, Idaho, significant discussions emerged surrounding the upcoming Canyon County Pride Festival, reflecting deep community divisions on LGBTQ+ events. The public forum featured passionate testimonies from residents, highlighting contrasting views on the festival's implications for the community.

Jared Bateman, a local resident, voiced strong opposition to the Pride Festival, arguing that it promotes a culture he believes is inappropriate for public spaces, especially those frequented by children. He urged the council to deny the request for the festival to be held at Lakeview Park, suggesting that such events should be confined to indoor venues. Bateman's remarks echoed a sentiment among some community members who feel that the festival does not represent Nampa's values.

In contrast, Carolyn Greener defended the festival, pointing out that similar concerns about traffic and decency were not raised for other large events held at the park, such as the Festival of the Arts. She emphasized that attendees of the Pride Festival, like any other citizens, deserve the right to host peaceful gatherings without fear of discrimination or violence.

The discussion took a personal turn when Kimberly Lewis, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, shared her experiences of coming out and the importance of the festival for individuals seeking acceptance and community. Lewis argued that the event is about self-expression and safety, not indecency or conflict, and called for understanding and support from the council.

The council's engagement with these testimonies highlights the ongoing debate in Nampa regarding inclusivity and community values. As the council prepares to make decisions about the festival, the contrasting perspectives presented during the public forum underscore the need for dialogue and consideration of diverse viewpoints within the community.

Moving forward, the council will need to navigate these complex issues, balancing community concerns with the rights of individuals to express themselves freely. The outcome of this discussion could set a precedent for future events and the city's approach to inclusivity.