North Grenville, ON – June 1st marks the beginning of Pride Month. Council, and representatives of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community gathered earlier this week to proudly raise the Pride flag in celebration of this month. In so doing, we are highlighting our community's ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

In North Grenville, we strive to be a welcoming place and a proud ally to our friends, family, and neighbors in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. "On behalf of Council, we are thrilled to recognize Pride Month which serves as an opportunity to celebrate the diversity that makes us stronger," said Mayor Nancy Peckford.

"We know that North Grenville has a wonderful reputation for caring and compassion, and that this compassion must extend to all members of the community, especially queer youth and those who are most marginalized. Everyone has the right to belong in our community, regardless of their gender or sexual identity," she added.

Unfortunately however, despite the considerable progress that We have made as a country, there has been a notable increase in online and in-person attacks towards the 2SLGBTQIA+ community across Canada. This includes attacks made towards members of our own community. This is totally unacceptable.

"Our Municipality has an important role to play in speaking out against all forms of hate. We recognize the invaluable contributions of every local organization that supports the 2SLGBTQIA+ community through various initiatives and events," added Councillor Strackerjan.

As a municipality, Pride month gives us the chance to reaffirm our commitment to full inclusion and recognize the invaluable contributions of every local organization that supports the 2SLGBTQIA+ community through various initiatives and events. We acknowledge the historical and ongoing challenges faced by this community and are united against intolerance.

We encourage all residents to take the time to learn a little more about the significance of Pride Month. There is also an array of events to
Enjoy, including Drag Bingo in support of the North Grenville Rainbow Youth Alliance on Saturday and the Pride Parade as well as After Party hosted by NG Pride on Sunday. As allies, we can stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

This month and every month, let’s be a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and loved.

Nancy Peckford
Mayor, Municipality of North Grenville