From May 31 to June 7, U of G will fly the Pride flag to celebrate and honour the LGBTQ2IA+ community. LGBTQ2IA+ represents lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, two-spirit, intersex, asexual and many other identities that fall outside of heterosexual and cisgender paradigms.
Take part in the official flag-raising Friday, May 31 at 9 a.m. by the University Centre south entrance. Representatives from the University and Guelph Queer Equality will speak.
Throughout June, Pride events are happening around the city and on campus:
- Guelph Pride – May 31 to June 7 – throughout the city
- Pride, Activism and Dance: Movie Night – June 4 – MacNaughton Building
- Representation in the Queer Community: Pamela Dedman – June 14 – Library
- Pride: 50 Years of Activism book display – June 17 – Library
Want to know more about U of G LGBTQ2IA+ community groups and resources?
- Student Experience LGBTQ2IA+ supports, resources and programming
- QUofG Network for faculty and staff (email QUofG@uoguelph.ca for more information)
Know of other local Pride events to share? Email campusnews@uoguelph.ca.
New Pride benches on campus
This past winter, six benches were installed off Winegard Walk between Massey and Johnston halls. This new Pride area is meant to be a recognizable and engaging part of the U of G landscape, says Jill Vigers, manager of architectural design, Physical Resources. The design was vetted through the University’s Landscape Advisory Committee, which included the CSA’s vice-president (external), who is the committee’s liaison with Guelph Queer Equality.
“The benches have the words associated with the six-colour version of the Pride flag carved out of the side of them,” says Vigers. “The play with light and shadow and a welcoming arch right off the main Winegard pedestrian walk are all important to this area.” Landscaping around the benches is planned for this summer.