Social distancing measures weren’t going to stop Lethbridge College from showing its support for the LGBTTQQIA community. In an event live-streamed to the entire campus community and beyond, Lethbridge College President and CEO Dr. Paula Burns raised the Pride Flag on campus on Monday morning.
The rainbow flag is flying outside of the college’s main entrance in celebration of Pride Month and in conjunction with Lethbridge Pride Fest. The COVID-19 pandemic forced Lethbridge Pride to move its events online, and Lethbridge College followed suit. But even with restrictions in place, it was important for the college to ensure the flag was raised to show support for the LGBTTQQIA community. This is the fifth year in a row the college has flown the Pride flag.
“We are committed to using our voice to support the LGBTTQQIA community,” says Dr. Burns. “As an educational institution, it’s important that we lead the way in acceptance and support, and that we demonstrate everyone is welcome on our campus. We will continue to learn and grow while focusing on equity, diversity and inclusion to create a safe campus for all.”
The college is committed to providing support and resources to its LGBTTQQIA community. The college opened a Pride Lounge in September 2018 under the oversight of the Lethbridge College Students’ Association LGBTQ+ Club, and the lounge is open to all students.
Lethbridge College is also a proud to be one of just 17 Canadian post-secondary institutions chosen for the Dimensions pilot program, a national initiative designed to evaluate what the college is already doing to promote equity, diversity and inclusion on campus, and identifying areas in need of improvement.
In past years, representatives from Lethbridge College have marched in the Lethbridge Pride parade and look forward to doing so again as a symbol of solidarity and support. More information on this year’s Pride week events can be found on the official Lethbridge Pride Fest website.