In a period of rising hate against gender and sexual minorities, it is distressing to learn that the South Shore Regional Centre for Education considered no longer flying Pride flags outside our community schools, along with the Mi’kmaq flag, pan African flag, and more, because of a flimsy excuse they are hard and costly to maintain. It shows that some flags, like the colonial flags of the white settler society, are more important than others. It shows that others are easily expendable.
In times like these, we must make mindful choices about proactively and visibly supporting marginalized groups to demonstrate our full support and appreciation for our rich diversity and history. By prioritizing only two flags (despite the fact we live on unceded Mi’kmaq territory), we also show that our colonial institutions are not interested in working towards Reconciliation.
The presence of Pride flags in schools serves as a powerful symbol of acceptance and support in an era of anti-gender extremism. Graffiti representing hate is appearing right in our towns; therefore, it is vital that our centres for education stand resolute in supporting all students, families, and staff. We must make our schools safer, given that in the 2022-2023 Student Success Survey, only 28% of the youth who experienced bigotry felt the school did a good job of responding. We can all do better.
We must listen to communities that are impacted by these decisions, and pause when they let us know such decisions are disturbing. Then we must find ways to move forward, ensuring all groups are reflected in our educational system in visible ways so that we cannot be perceived to be giving in to pressure from extremist views grounded in hatred. Exterior flags are one such way, although there are other permanent ways we can honour groups, such as the beautiful placards on Bridgewater Elementary. A resolution must include visible support to the whole community. A resolution must show that our schools are safe from politicized violence and bigotry.