The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador hosted a flag raising event today to celebrate the beginning of Pride Season in Newfoundland and Labrador. Pride month is celebrated throughout Canada in June, with events in Newfoundland and Labrador held in various communities, towns and cities during the summer season.

Pride activities are an opportunity to celebrate diversity and the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. This is a dedicated time to acknowledge the history and achievements of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, while raising awareness of the importance of acceptance and inclusion.

During today’s ceremony, the Progress Pride flag was raised on the courtesy flagpole at Confederation Building. Attendees heard from Sarah Worthman, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Queer Research Initiative, about the importance of recognizing and respecting the province’s queer history. Local singer Evelyn Jess helped to promote messages of inclusivity through a musical performance.

Tonight the Confederation Building will be lit in the colours of the rainbow as a visual reminder of the importance of Pride. Additionally, four rainbow crosswalks and rainbow benches are visible on the Confederation Building grounds year-round.

The Provincial Government is committed to working with the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community to ensure Newfoundland and Labrador is a safe, accessible and inclusive place for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations.

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“Our government celebrates the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community and the diversity found throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Each of us can help to create an inclusive province for all people during Pride Season and every month of the year. Kindness, acceptance, and respect are foundational to a vibrant and thriving province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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