THUNDER BAY – The Lakehead District School Board raised up the Progressive Pride flag for the sixth year on Monday.
Ellen Chambers, chair of the Lakehead District School Board, said this is something they take very seriously.
“Even though it’s Pride month, all about celebration, it’s also a time to remember where we’ve been and where we’re going.
“It’s really important for us to show our students that we are celebrating. That our students are being included and are safe,” Chambers said.
The students are the ones leading these days, she said.
“They are the ones having events. I was at the Pride flag raising at Hammarskjold High School, where the students did all of the speeches and were out there with their flags.”
Chambers said her advice for parents is to listen to real information and not disinformation.
“There is an awful lot of politics going out there and using it as a political gain.”
“I think most parents are open, but not all are. That’s why the schools are such an important place to provide safety for their students. We accept them all for who they are,” she said.
Scotia Kauppi, chair of the Thunder Pride Association, said raising the Pride flag saves lives.
“Places that don’t have the flags have bullying at a higher rate. Kids do unfortunately take their own lives because of discrimination. They suffer with mental distress and that affects the community as a whole.
“Me myself being a different kid - having safe schools is really huge.
“Seeing the change in the curriculum now covering so much more is a wonderful thing.”
Kauppi’s oldest child identifies as gender fluid, using the pronouns she/they. The pronoun change has never been an issue for any of her teachers, Kauppi said.
“I still feel comfortable having conversations about sexuality and not looking for labels right away. Just grow and experience who you are safely and happily.”
Kauppi reiterated how important having support is.
“Look out for your friends. Reach out to a teacher or a counsellor and look for resources in places like Thunder Pride or Rainbow Collective."
“Know you are loved, welcomed and supported by the community regardless of what anybody says.”
The Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board also held a ceremony on Monday where they kicked off Pride month by raising a flag.
