Government Raises Pride Flag in Halifax
The Progress Pride flag was raised at Province House in Halifax today, June 28. (Communications Nova Scotia)
It’s Pride Month, and Nova Scotia is capping off a month of celebrations by raising the flag.
Today, June 28, Labour, Skills and Immigration Minister Jill Balser, on behalf of Twila Grosse, Minister of the Public Service Commission, and members of the Pride Nova Scotia Government Employee Network raised the Progress Pride flag at Province House in Halifax in support of people who identify as two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex or asexual.
“We want Nova Scotia to be an equitable, inclusive society free of hate and discrimination. This flag is a powerful reminder that the fight for equality extends beyond sexual orientation and gender identity. Pride is important for all of us,” said Minister Balser. “In a world where hate is on the rise, let’s create a province where love is celebrated, and homophobia and transphobia are rejected.”
The Office of Equity and Anti-Racism has recently launched public engagement and a survey to help inform a 2SLGBTQIA+ action plan.
Quotes:
“Celebrating Pride in the public service is essential. We need employees to feel safe to be their full selves and to share their perspectives so we can better serve all Nova Scotians. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, we strengthen our collective commitment to more just and respectful workplaces.”
— Tracey Barbrick, deputy minister champion, Pride Nova Scotia Government Employee Network
Quick Facts:
- the Pride Nova Scotia Government Employee Network has raised the Pride flag since 2010 to support 2SLGBTQIA+ rights in Nova Scotia
- the network was established in 2009 to create supportive work environments for all employees, including those who identify themselves as allies and want to help put an end to discrimination
- the Progress Pride flag recognizes people of colour, as well as trans and intersex people and those with HIV/AIDS; the triangle shape recognizes the progress still needed
Additional Resources:
2SLGBTQIA+ action plan engagement: https://www.oeaengagement.ca/2slgbtqia-action-plan
All Together – An Action Plan for Diversity and Inclusion in the Public Service 2019 – 2024: https://beta.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/documents/1-1540/action-plan-diversity-and-inclusion-public-service-2019-2024-all-together-en.pdf