On the July 28, 2025 Pueblo City Council Meeting & Censure Resolution Outcome
Last night, Pueblo City Council had the chance to formally condemn hateful, discriminatory rhetoric from Councilor Roger Gomez—rhetoric targeting library employees’ gender identities. The resolution to censure Councilor Gomez resulted in a 3–3 tie, meaning it did not pass.
Let us be clear: a censure is not a punishment—it is an expression of values. It does not restrict Councilor Gomez’s right to speak. It simply affirms that his remarks—suggesting a staff member’s identity makes our public library less “family friendly”—do not reflect the values of our City or its leadership.
We are disappointed in the outcome of the vote, but we are deeply proud of—and grateful for—those who showed courage and leadership:
Councilor Sarah Martinez, who bravely brought forth the resolution and stood firm in her commitment to justice and dignity. Her courage in taking a principled stand matters, and history will remember her for it.
Councilors Dennis Flores and Brett Boston, who joined her in voting yes and affirming that hate speech should not go unchecked.
Mayor Heather Graham, whose consistent support of the LGBTQ+ community has not gone unnoticed.
And most especially, the library employee who sat through hours of a public meeting while their humanity was debated, and still found the strength to speak up for themselves and for others. Their bravery is a powerful reminder that visibility is resistance, and that our community stands with them.
We also thank the dozens of community members who gathered outside the council chambers and stayed until nearly midnight to offer public comment. Your voices, your presence, and your solidarity made it clear: Pueblo won’t stand idle as hate goes unchallenged.
To those who voted no—Councilors Mark Aliff, Joe Latino, and Regina Maestri—we ask you to reflect. A vote against censure is not a neutral act. It sends a message that words of personal disrespect and public harassment may be tolerated.
This moment is about more than one councilor or one library staff member. It’s about whether Pueblo is the kind of place where everyone—regardless of gender, identity, or background—can walk into a public space and be treated with respect.
We remain committed to building that Pueblo every day.
In solidarity,
The Board of Directors
Southern Colorado Equality Alliance (SCEA)
