**** CNS Media Release
Pride Nova Scotia Network members, Premier Stephen McNeil and government officials were in attendance as the Pride flag was raised at Province House, in Halifax today, June 25.
“We raise the Pride flag every year as a direct reflection of how important 2SLGBTIQ+ rights and inclusion are to the people of Nova Scotia,” said Premier McNeil. “This year, we are raising the progress Pride flag with stripes, which includes the trans community and Black, Indigenous and people of colour to demonstrate that the 2SLGBTIQ+ community stands in solidarity to fight against any form of discrimination, harassment and violence.”
The Pride flag raising is an opportunity to reflect on the significant work that has been accomplished over the last five decades since the Stonewall riots in New York City.
“Committing to diversity, equity and true inclusion is up to us. Part of being a diverse province is understanding how to use our privilege to make a difference.”
– Laura Lee Langley, Public Service commissioner
“Raising this even more inclusive version of the Pride flag is an important and visible symbol of the commitment of the Nova Scotia public service to ensuring safe, inclusive spaces that appreciate the diversity of experience and identity within the 2SLGBTIQ+ community.”
– Ian Mullan, co-chair of the Pride Nova Scotia Network
Quick Facts:
— virtual Pride events will be held throughout the summer in communities to continue creating space for everyone to express themselves
— the Pride flag has been raised in Halifax since 2010
— the provincial government’s Pride Nova Scotia Network strives to create and maintain supportive and inclusive workplaces for government employees of diverse sexual orientations, sexes, gender identities and gender expressions
Additional Resources:
All Together – An Action Plan for Diversity and Inclusion in the Public Service 2019 – 2024 http://beta.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/documents/1-1540/action-plan-diversity-and-inclusion-public-service-2019-2024-all-together-en.pdf
For information on 2020 Virtual Halifax Pride Festival, July 16 – 26, visit http://www.halifaxpride.com
