Interest groups who want to raise a flag in Chatham-Kent won't have to worry about being restricted anytime soon.
On Monday, Chatham-Kent council voted against a motion that proposed a restriction on any flags being raised at the civic centre apart from the national, provincial, and municipal flags.
The proposal by Ward 4 Councillor Rhonda Jubenville was in response to an unanswered request to fly the flag of anti-abortion group "Life in Motion."
Jubenville said her motion was intended to bring the community together and not create division.
"I have received hateful messages, I have had two wishes of death, and a witches spell cast on me all because I feel our three government flags are what is needed outside our municipal centres," said Jubenville.
Condemning any sort of hateful messages, Councillor Brock McGregor said he too has received messages related to the issue.
"I think it's important we reject those statements and I think we have a responsibility as municipal leaders to create and promote an inclusive community," said McGregor.
Ultimately, the motion failed 12-5.
Councillor Marjorie Crew entered a successful motion to refer the issue back to municipal staff to develop a policy and protocol that would provide a clear direction as well as a framework for flag raisings at all municipal facilities.
"I understand the intent around Councillor Jubenville's motion and I understand when community groups are excluded," said Crew. "I'm hoping that staff will come back with something that is fair, consistent and something that recognizes all groups."
The motion passed 14-3.
A draft policy will return back to council in September 2023 for a vote.
