Editor’s note: please see the social media platforms referred to for more details.

As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and the chair of the San Juan Island Pride Foundation, I am deeply concerned and disgusted by the increasingly hostile environment that has taken hold on local social media bulletin boards like What’s Up Friday Harbor and San Juan Island Bulletin Board. These online spaces, once meant for community connection and support, have become platforms for harmful rhetoric and unabashed hate that undermines the values of inclusivity and respect that our island community holds dear.

We have witnessed a surge in inflammatory comments, targeted harassment, and misinformation aimed at LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. These actions have gone far enough to recently put a local school official in danger when their personal information, including contact information and home address was shared for the purpose of harassment. These actions are not only extremely dangerous but create a culture of fear and division, discouraging open dialogue and making members of our community feel unwelcome in the very place they call home. While constructive discussions and differing opinions are a natural part of any community, personal attacks, discriminatory language, and hate-speech should have no place in these spaces—online or offline.

We also urge our fellow community members to take a stand against these toxic spaces by leaving groups that foster hate and division. One such space is the “Rant and Rave” Facebook group, which has become a breeding ground for harmful and discriminatory rhetoric. By choosing not to participate in these spaces, we send a clear message that bigotry and harassment are not values our island stands for. Instead, we encourage people to engage in forums that promote respectful dialogue and genuine community support.

The reality is simple: LGBTQIA+ people exist on San Juan Island—whether you like it or not. We are your neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members. We contribute to this community in countless ways, and we have every right to live openly and safely, just like everyone else. Denying or attempting to erase our presence does not change the fact that we are here, always have been, and always will be.

San Juan Island has long been known for its spirit of acceptance and unity. We urge our neighbors to reflect on the impact of their words and to foster conversations that uphold the dignity of all individuals. We call on the administrators of these online forums to take proactive steps in moderating harmful content and ensuring their platforms remain safe spaces for respectful discussion. Lastly, we ask our neighbors to leave Rant & Rave

Hate has no home here. Let’s work together to keep San Juan Island a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported.

With Pride,

Shayne Smith,

San Juan Island Pride Foundation