In celebration of June being Pride Month, a ceremonial flag-raising took place over the noon hour today at the County Administration Building on Colborne Street. Norfolk Mayor Amy Martin notes through the act of raising the Pride Flag – quote – “Norfolk proudly affirms our dedication to fostering an inclusive community.”
Former MPP of Brantford and now Port Dover resident Phil Gillies was on hand and reminded us we’ve come a long way.
Gillies went on to explained that there were members in all parties that showed support, but the 1986 bill was still not all inclusive of the queer community.
Gillies reflected on his time at Queens Park and what was accomplished to include gays and lesbians under the Ontario Human Rights code.
Many members of the public and Norfolk County Staff were present. A young onlooker named Ryder volunteered to raise the flag which was met by applause. If you’d like to learn more about Pride Month and upcoming Pride events in the County, you can visit Pride Haldimand Norfolk’s website.
Phil Gillies’ full speech from the flag-raising ceremony is below.
Written by Jeremy Hall