The University of Guelph is proud to announce the installation of a colourful, new Pride flag on campus. A rainbow walkway has been put in place just in time for the start of fall classes that sends a strong message to our community that this is a campus where everyone belongs.
Painted on the path from Winegard Walk to the McLaughlin Library, the Progress Pride flag is an eye-catching visual symbol of U of G’s commitment to being a place where all members of the LGBTQ2IA+ community feel valued, respected and accepted.
The installation was funded by the University’s Highest Priority Fund, through which individual donors contribute to support University-identified priorities like student assistance, innovative activities and strategic plan initiatives.
U of G is the third location in the city to have a Pride flag sidewalk or crosswalk installed. Two other rainbow walkways can be found at the intersection of Norfolk Street and Waterloo Avenue and at the Stone Road Mall.
Building an equitable and inclusive campus
“This Pride flag sends a strong message that U of G is committed to the path to equality for everyone on our campus. The rainbow walkway is part of a broader strategy to continue making our campus more inclusive. It’s a colourful reminder that LGBTQ2IA+ individuals are celebrated at U of G,” said Associate Vice-President, Diversity and Human Rights Indira Naidoo-Harris. “The rainbow walkway says that we all have a part to play in creating a welcoming environment for everyone.”
While symbols are powerful, it’s U of G’s people and culture who contribute to making the campus inclusive. In addition to installing the Pride flag, this fall, U of G formalized Gender Inclusive Housing, which aims to minimize barriers to applying to and living in residence while providing education on gender identity for all U of G students. Although the ability to live in gender-inclusive space has been available for a number of years, the updated application process makes it clearer and easier for students to indicate that they prefer gender-inclusive housing on their residence application.
In addition, Student Experience also celebrated 50 years of OUTline this summer, U of G’s resource and support service specializing in questions and information relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Interested in learning more about how you can contribute to building an equitable and inclusive campus? Check out the Office of Diversity and Human Rights’ resources and courses on allyship, microaggressions and anti-oppression principles.