LETHBRIDGE COLLEGE
Lethbridge College celebrates Pride on campus and in the community

The rainbow flag is flying at Lethbridge College as a visual reminder of the institution's commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

College employees, students, special guests and community members gathered on campus to raise the flag in celebration of Pride Month and to show their support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

This is the ninth year the college has flown the Pride Flag in June and the fourth time it has raised the Progressive Pride Flag, which promotes inclusivity by recognizing trans individuals, marginalized people of colour, and those who are living with or who have died from HIV/AIDS.

"Pride is not just a celebration of identity; it's a celebration of humanity," says Lethbridge College President and CEO Dr. Brad Donaldson. "Our campus is a microcosm of the broader world, and what we cultivate here - understanding, belonging and inclusiveness - reverberates beyond our classrooms and into our community. By embracing these values, we not only enrich our educational environment, but we also set a standard for the larger community of Lethbridge."

Donaldson notes that while Pride celebrations at Lethbridge College are a testament to the progress the institution has made toward creating a more inclusive campus, they are also a reminder of the work still ahead.

"We recognize that the journey towards full equality is ongoing, and we must remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts," he says. "Let's continue to build a community where everyone can live authentically and proudly."

Lane Sterr, a 2019 graduate of the college's Business Administration - Accounting program and current president of the Lethbridge Pride Fest Society, also spoke at Wednesday's event, and reminded attendees that, "we are undeniably stronger when we come together than when we are divided."

"Pride is our collective roar in the face of oppression, our joyful dance in the face of sorrow, and our unbreakable bond in the face of division," says Sterr. "Together, we affirm that we are here, we are proud, and we will continue to fight for a world where everyone has a seat at the table."

For the sixth year, Lethbridge College will be participating in the Lethbridge Pride Parade taking place on Saturday. College volunteers will make their way along the parade route from Civic Centre Park to Galt Gardens where the 16^th annual Pride in the Park will take place.

For details on Saturday's parade, Pride in the Park and several other events happening in the community this month, visit the Lethbridge Pride Fest website. 

Information on Lethbridge College's Equity, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives can be found at www.lethbridgecollege.ca/edi.