Brooks Gender and Sexuality Alliance gave a presentation to the qathet School District (qSD) board of trustees at the regular meeting on Wednesday, February 21.
The three students, along with qSD teacher Willow Dunlop, displayed an example of a framed pride flag that the group plans to present to schools throughout the district, to show support for LGTBQS+ students.
qSD board of trustees chairperson Jaclyn Miller opened the meeting by acknowledging Pink Shirt Day.
"We have chosen to wear pink shirts to our meeting today to highlight Pink Shirt Day, which falls on February 28 this year," said Miller.
"At our last committee of the whole meeting, we discussed an article, The Performance of Pink, by Brian Gidinski. This article highlighted that Pink Shirt Day originated in response to hurtful and homophobic behaviour and the conversation around Pink Shirt Day has shifted to encouraging and celebrating kindness. It’s important that our students understand why this day was needed."
Miller said that at this year's Pink Shirt Day assemblies, sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) school leads will be present during a video presentation by Gender and Sexuality Alliance members.
"These school leads will present a large, framed pride flag to principals," said Miller. "It is important that we publicly acknowledge our support and acceptance, ensure our schools are safe for everyone, and stand firm in our opposition to homophobic and hurtful behaviour."
The flags will be installed the week of March 4 to 8.
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