By Bryan Boggiano

To promote acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, Coral Springs’s human resources department hosted an employee LGBTQ+ roundtable pride discussion on Thursday with a panel of community and state leaders.

The panelists included Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Inspector Jami Hershey, Coral Springs Parkland Fire Department Captain Lici Merritt, and Coral Springs Police Detective James Caban.

Hershey spoke about her experience coming out as transgender, and Kaban discussed serving as an openly gay police officer. Merritt discussed why she is an ally and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Human Rights Campaign Director Nik Harris served as the keynote speaker.

According to Lynne Martzall, marketing, and communications director, the city’s human resources department regularly hosts roundtable discussions and learning opportunities on various topics such as mental health, workplace intelligence, effective teamwork, and emotional intelligence.

“Hosting events for employees to learn more about topics they may be less familiar with or want to better understand is something we are committed to providing for our workforce, who in turn serve this diverse community,” she said.

Martzall said Coral Springs would continue supporting the city’s LGBTQ+ residents, employees, business owners, and visitors.

According to Martzall, the city regularly issues proclamations to mark LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and the commission plans to do the same at their June 22 meeting.

“This support reaffirms that all members of the community are entitled to their dignity, equal rights, and self-affirmation, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity.”

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