Oshawa and Clarington celebrate Pride Month in Durham Region
Published June 4, 2024 at 11:04 am
Celebrating diversity is top of mind for the mayors of Oshawa and Clarington in honouring June as Pride Month in their respective cities.
“We celebrate the beauty and diversity of this community and recognize their fundamental rights to equality. The City of Oshawa is proud of its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter in his statement. “Each year, we honour this commitment by working to create an open and inclusive city and workplace for everyone.”
Oshawa provides ongoing training and education for staff to create environments where “everyone feels welcomed and accepted,” but Carter acknowledges the City and the community can do more to combat hate and discrimination. “We will continue our efforts to move forward antidiscrimination policies and inclusive gender and sexual orientation initiatives that aim to combat hate and violence.”
“Let us all stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQ+ people and communities this month to support their journey towards equity and equality.”
Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster said the community has “a lot to be proud of this month,” a time to celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and reflect on the ways that gay, bisexual, and transgender residents have pushed for progress, and “made our community a better place.”
“Clarington is a welcoming and inclusive community where diversity is embraced and celebrated. We recognize the importance of creating a culture of respect and equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Our diversity strengthens us, bringing unique perspectives, experiences, and talents to our municipality,” he said.
“This Pride Month, we can be proud of how far we have come while recognizing we still have work to do to ensure that love and acceptance triumph over prejudice and discrimination. Clarington should always be a place where everyone can feel free to live authentically and with pride.”
Oshawa, Clarington and other Durham Region municipalities will be supporting Pride Month at the Youth Pride Durham on Saturday, June 22 at Durham Regional Headquarters in Whitby.
