Aurora, ON. - More than 400 students, staff and community members from York Region District School Board gathered on June 1 to raise the Progressive Pride flag in celebration of Pride Month.
“We are proud to recognize June as Pride Month and celebrate the history and contributions of the 2SLGBTQI+ community,” said Carolynn Butterworth, Trustee, Georgina and East Gwillimbury. “We know how important it is for our students, their families and staff to see their identities reflected in their learning and working environments and community, and to have their identities celebrated.”
Students and staff from Dr. J.M. Denison S.S. and Phoebe Gilman P.S. shared their experiences and the importance of raising the Progressive Pride flag and of having supportive learning environments.
“I hope that by raising this flag here today we can help people feel less alone. Let it serve as a reminder of the responsibility our school system has to do just that,” said Meghan, student and GSA president. “And for those of us that are not quite ready to step into every part of ourselves to show that this flag, this community is always going to be here to welcome you with open arms when you are ready.”
As the flag was raised, the Roméo Dallaire P.S. choir sang Beautiful Noise by Alicia Keys and Brandi Carlile and closed out the celebration with an impromptu jam session inside the Aurora Education Centre.
“We want to ensure that when you enter any YRDSB school or workplace, regardless of who you are, how you identify, or who you love, you will be welcome and you will feel included,” said Cecil Roach, Associate Director of Education. “We will continue the work to make sure this happens.”
All Board offices and 214 schools will be flying the Progressive Pride flag for the month of June.