In a display of unity and inclusivity, Chatham-Kent has come together to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community through a simple yet powerful symbol.
Businesses across Chatham-Kent are being offered signs to put in their windows, showing their support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Joel Emery, Fund Development/Admin Coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent (ASCK), posted a queer-friendly sign at the agency's main entrance last year during Pride Week. Little did he know that this small act would ignite a movement to promote acceptance and respect throughout the entire community.
The sign was designed to assure all 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals that they are always welcomed, respected, and encouraged at ASCK.
Both CK Pride and the Municipality recognized the importance of promoting inclusivity, especially in the face of rising hate towards 2SLGBTQIA+ persons.
"The Municipality is proud to be part of this initiative to promote inclusion in our community," said Rebecca Haskell-Thomas, Coordinator of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for the Municipality. "It is important to us that everyone in our community feel safe, welcomed, and respected."
The sign is accompanied by a brochure explaining its significance. The brochure provides resources and information on being a good ally, underscoring the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone, regardless of their identity or location.
"CK Pride welcomes this initiative as part of a wider movement of anti-oppression work of learning and unlearning, recognizing how actions and words matter, honouring the right to self-determination over one's body, desires and needs," said Nathan Dawthorne, Vice President of CK Gay Pride Association.
CK Pride has made 1,000 signs available for local businesses, organizations, and residents to make this message visible and widely spread throughout the community. They encourage community members to proudly display these signs in their windows or other visible spaces during CK Pride Week and throughout the year.
If you wish to support this movement and request a sign, email CK Pride at info@ckpride.com or visit any Municipal Service Centre.
Pride Week in Chatham-Kent is set to kick off on Friday, August 11, with the highly anticipated Flag Raising event.
To stay updated on all the festivities, you can visit www.ckpride.com.
