Inspired by my child’s request, I ask you to consider joining our vision for our county. As a therapist, spouse, friend, and parent of community members whose identities are valued and inherently deserving of recognition and respect, there is a deep personal longing to foster an inclusive and harmonious environment. In Leonardtown, MD, and the broader St. Mary’s County, adopting symbols that embody unity and peace is not just a symbolic gesture, but a vital step towards healing and connection.

The Peace Flag stands as a beacon of harmony, a symbol that acknowledges and celebrates the diversity within St. Mary’s. In a world where cultural, racial, spiritual, gender, sexual, and age-related identities are often met with division, St. Mary’s can lead by example. We have an opportunity to prove we welcome every race, culture, spirituality, gender, sexuality, age, and ability, and unite our community around these shared values. This is a call to action to stand up for equity and justice for all people. Raising the Peace Flag daily would demonstrate our commitment to fostering a community where equity is not just an ideal, but a practice; where justice is administered without prejudice; and where conflicts are resolved without resorting to violence. Such a commitment can spearhead a societal transformation, healing our community by promoting kindness and understanding. Learn more: https://peaceflagmovement.org/   

 Encourage the St. Mary’s County Commissioners to adopt this meaningful symbol as one of our county flags. Let it wave proudly and daily as an emblem of a future we envision—one rooted in peace and justice for all. Please sign this petition and help us urge the St. Mary’s County Commissioners to raise the Peace Flag in a powerful, unifying gesture of change and commitment to every resident’s dignity and worth. Together, let's raise the Peace Flag in the name of change. Sign the petition today. *Many have contacted me to express concerns over retaliation if they signed this petition despite their belief in the goodness it holds for our community. I encourage you to sign anonymously if called to do so. I am sure our commissioners would understand their constituents’ intentions, considering the current political climate we are facing in America.*