A group will be protesting the refusal to raise a Pride flag at Hastings Highlands township offices.
Queers of the Area member Joe Shulman says they’re meeting at the farmer’s market on Aug. 1, and then walking down to the township offices to stand in a circle in silence around the flag pole, symbolizing the queer community being ‘stunned silent’ by council.
“The whole point is to draw attention to something out of synch with the time we are living in.”
Shulman said “small town after small town” have shown their support by raising a flag, which he says reminds the queer community that they are welcome, celebrated and their ideas are nourished.
The Municipality’s CAO and Deputy Treasurer David Stewart says after a past council reviewed the existing corporate flag policy, they voted to not make any amendments.
Stewart says in partnership with the library over the years, Pride Month was supported with various events, including book displays, which is happening again this year, as well as hosting authors and highlighting diverse voices and experiences.
Stewart adds the Pride Flag is also displayed at the entrance of the Hasting Highlands Centre in Maynooth,
Shulman says the local queer community has given back in various ways and has a good relationship with council – he says A Pride in Hastings Highland event will be held this year on Aug. 2, including an artisan market, a potluck and more.
Related: Longtime Hastings Highlands Pride organizer says new stewards are continuing the legacy.
