Province Celebrates Pride

Premier Darrell Dexter helped raise the Pride flag at Province House in Halifax today, June 28, to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the province's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community.

2012 marks 25 years of Halifax Pride Week, which runs July 20-29.

"Nova Scotia is a friendly, open and accepting province with a strong LGBTI community," Premier Dexter said. "Nova Scotians are proud of the province's diversity and want to do their part to create even stronger, safer and more inclusive communities. That includes the workplace.

"Changing workplace culture is an ongoing process. There is no one person or one group that is responsible for this change. All of us have a part to play and we need to work together to create a space where all employees can be happy and healthy."

The premier was joined by Communities, Culture and Heritage Deputy Minister Laura Lee Langley, members of the provincial Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex Network and their supporters.

The network was formed in 2009 for public servants who identify with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex communities.

"The 25th anniversary of Halifax Pride demonstrates the support and celebration of Pride in the community," said Kevin Barrett, co-chair, LGBTI Network. "The ongoing work of the LGBTI Network support LGBTI rights in the Nova Scotia public service."

"The role of the LGBTI Network is to advance inclusion and equity related to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression in the workplace," said Laura Barbour, co-chair, LGBTI Network. "It also plays an important role in providing a sense of belonging, community and acceptance."

"I appreciate that I can be a part of the LGBTI Network and that this work is supported by my employer," said LGBTI Network council member Colleen Bob.

For many, the highlight of Halifax Pride Week is the parade through the city. This year the parade will take place July 28.

Provincial government employees and the LGBTI network will march together in the parade to support diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

The theme of this year's celebration is Out Celebrating 25. For more information on this year's celebrations, visit www.halifaxpride.com .