Kincardine, KDSS raise the Pride flag at municipal office

The story of the Pride flag being raised in the Municipality of Kincardine is one that reflects the journey of many students at Kincardine District Secondary School School, and symbolizes the social-justice-oriented efforts of citizens in the community.

Over the past four years, KDSS has offered a Gay-Straight Alliance Club (GSA). The Bluewater District School Board and the leadership of superintendent Lori Wilder, along with decades of pioneering work by Joan Beecroft, have made the introduction of GSA clubs in Bluewater District the success it has become.

The students of the club have welcomed and introduced travelling organizations that presented dramatic arts presentations, advocating issues of social justice, not only those addressing personal identity but those which have addressed healthy relationships between adolescents.

The diversity of students at KDSS is reflected in the diverse paradigms of the citizens of the Municipality of Kincardine. Tremendous outreach by the Kincardine arts, heritage and cultural committee, the work of resident Fort Papalia and the interest of the students have cultivated an environment where acknowledgement of equality and acceptance can be publicly presented by the community.

The flying of the Pride flag has a dual nature: On one side, it represents a celebration and acceptance of Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgendered members of our society; however, on the other side, it symbolizes the "right to exist" as members of the community as a whole, without persecution.

That is fundamental. Youth today accept this right but too often, there are adults who foster hate and resentment.

The fact that Kincardine and the Bluewater District School Board have the fortitude to embrace love and acceptance, and to reject hate and intolerance, is a positive step forward.

Appreciation to Kincardine council, mayor Anne Eadie, and the school board, for making the right decision, and for inviting students from KDSS to bear witness to such an historical and proud event for the school and community.