Pride flags are displayed to celebrate diversity as a strength, as well as to symbolize safe spaces and allyship.
Today, I received a letter from Civic Service Union 52 (CSU 52) regarding their concern surrounding claims that Edmonton Public Library (EPL) provided direction to branches to not display Pride flags outside of specific celebrations, such as Pride Week.
My office has increasingly heard from the Queer community that they are feeling less and less safe and welcome in public spaces.
I previously spoke out against what was happening just outside of Edmonton in the community of Westlock with the plebiscite to ban painted crosswalks and flags. These are misguided steps under the guise of inclusion.
Neutralizing spaces isn’t the same as creating inclusive spaces.
I’m proud that a motion I put forward passed unanimously at City Council in response to addressing the rising hate towards the queer community and working to establish a City of Edmonton 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee. This work is well in process and is more timely with each passing day. Council has also supported the Library as a valued core public service by adding branches and expanding operational funding so these vital public spaces can be open on Sundays.
My commitment to making Edmonton a safe place for all remains unchanged, including advocating for welcoming and inclusive spaces for the Queer community.
