The Birthplace of the Women’s Rights Movement continues to buzz following Thursday’s announcement by town Supervisor Greg Lazzaro that he will ask the board to cut off funding to the National Women’s Hall of Fame.
The reason? The Hall’s plan to induct Jane Fonda as part of its Class of 2019 in September.
Lazzaro noted Fonda’s opposition to the Vietnam War — that included Fonda’s visit to Hanoi, the capital of North Vietnam, which Lazzaro said was basically treasonous and an insult to veterans — as the reason he will introduce the motion at Tuesday’s Town Board meeting.
In anticipation of a large group of speakers at the meeting, which will start at 6 p.m., it has been moved to the Community Center on Water Street.
A walk through downtown Seneca Falls Friday produced opinions on both sides of the issue.
In Parker’s Grille & Tap House on Fall Street, Joe Bradley said he agreed with the resolution.
“I remember Hanoi Jane. My brother was serving at that time she did those things,” Bradley said. “I think it’s good to have a discussion about this issue. I can also agree with some of what Mr. Avery (Town Board member Doug) said, so I can see both sides. It’s good to have a conversation.”
Vietnam veteran Mike Lambert of Fayette also agreed with Lazzaro’s stance.
“I don’t agree with what Jane Fonda did, and her apology didn’t cut it with me,” said Lamber before adding, “I’m not sure it’s legal for the town to give money to the Hall of Fame.”
At Kirk-Casey American Legion Post 366 on State Street, most people sitting at the bar declined to comment, although some could be heard muttering disparaging remarks about the actress.
Jim Bruning said he understands why veterans oppose Fonda’s induction, but isn’t sure cutting off Hall of Fame funding is the right approach.
“I can think of a lot more people to be upset about being inducted,” Bruning said. “I don’t think it’s a smart move to do this. … It makes no sense. The town should let this issue alone.”
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