Fanshawe revealed the newly painted sidewalk in commemoration of Pride Month and commitment for a safe community.
“This sidewalk is a reminder that we are walking on ground that is shaped by courage” said one speaker. It was reveled at the London campus’ annual flag raising ceremony on June 1.
“The sidewalk is near where the flag poles are for the London campus, and the other campuses will have a framed pride flag to symbolize it’s strong commitment for the community” said Xieling Zhang the equity strategy and community engagement consultant at Fanshawe.
“Were not just focusing on one campus but trying all the regional campuses.”
Xieling Zhang at the pride flag raising ceremony (Source: Daniel Thuss XFM News)
The ceremonies will take place on June 1 and June 2 with London and Simcoe on the 1st, and St. Thomas and Woodstock on the 2nd.
“It’s a way for Fanshawe College to display that visible symbol and also a commitment to creating really safe, affirming and inclusive spaces for all students and employees” said Zhang.
The progress pride flag is the symbol of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, the flag has changed a lot over the year adding colours for the trans, intersex, and indigenous communities.
“Not only represents the strength and history that the queer community has, but it showcases the community that comes together regardless of gender, sex, love, all of that is more of those family vibes that the queer community brings together” said Veronica Royale a drag queen in London.
Royale has been performing as a drag queen in London for seven years, appearing in shows that support local charities such as Y.O.U. and St. Leonard’s. Through these performances, she helps raise funds for community organizations while also bringing greater visibility to drag culture and the broader queer community.
June 1 marks the start of pride month for the 2SLGBTQI+ community that celebrates the pride and contributions of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Pride flag raising group photo (Source Daniel Thuss XFM News)
