Red Deer Polytechnic raised a pride flag in support of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in the early days of Pride Month.
Joining RDP during the flag-raising ceremony were the Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic and Central Alberta Pride.
“This flag raising ceremony or the progressive pride crosswalks may seem like a small thing to some, but to others, it lets them know that they are not alone. That they have allies here on campus. And most importantly, that they matter, and that we see them,” said Erin Bast, SARDP president.
RDP president Stuart Cullum the annual flag-raising ceremony is important day for the post-secondary institution.
“It’s an important month for Red Deer Polytechnic to demonstrate its support to the (2SLGBTQIA+) community. We have an ongoing focus on supporting diversity in our institution,” said Cullum.
“For the month of June we can fly the flag and show to the world that we’re proud of our (2SLGBTQIA+) community. We know how important it is for that community.”
Representatives of Central Alberta Pride and RDP’s Pride on Campus club spoke to a small crowd during the flag-raising ceremony at the front of the main campus.
“This gives them an opportunity to share their stories and share their thoughts, as well as our Students’ Association, which leads in a real significant way,” said Cullum.
Pride Month is an internationally-recognized event that occurs throughout June every year.
In a Facebook post, RDP stated it is committed to providing a learning and working environment where people feel valued and respected.
“Diversity and inclusiveness strengthen and enrich our Polytechnic, the experiences of our students, faculty, staff and employees, and our community,” the Facebook post said.
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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