OWATONNA, Minn. – Responding to call from Owatonna gays to resign for homophobic behavior utterances and behavior, Mayor Tom Kuntz both apologized and didn’t. In a public message the mayor said:
“I did what I thought was the right thing to do. My intent was not to harass or intimidate anyone. My words were my own and not those of the City. I try each day to follow my own faith and beliefs, but I also recognize other people have the right to follow their own faith and beliefs too. Please accept my apologies.”
The demand that he resign has followed Kuntz’s criticism of a gay pride event and his refusal to proclaim the day of event as Rainbowatonna Day. The mayor’s response, addressed to gay organizer Nathan Black, didn’t address a demand that he appoint a Rainbowatonna member the city Human Rights Commission. Black, Meanwhile, said that a Rainbowatonna delegation will meet with Kuntz for an apology “that acknowledges the impact of his actions.” The group also wants diversity and sensitivity training for the mayor and city staff.