GUELPH, ON – June 1st marks the start of Pride Month, a celebration and learning of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, history and futures.
At the Upper Grand District School Board, schools will be continuing their Pride education throughout the month of June as they learn through resources that are focused on 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, histories, pronouns, allyship and much more. Many schools are also participating in school events to help promote Pride at the school and community level.
On May 26 and 27, as a lead up to Pride Month, Guelph CVI, Centennial CVI and John F. Ross CVI bands came together for a concert to celebrate Pride and inclusion. These concerts featured guest conductor Randall Standridge, a highly recognized composer. On May 26, students in grade 6 to 8 came to support the bands and listen to great music. The concert was opened to the public on the 27th, where donations were collected for Egale Canada and more than $1,200 was raised. Learn more on the board website.
On June 1, all Upper Grand schools will be raising the Pride flag, with many schools doing an official flag raising ceremony. Through the Upper Grand’s equity committee, more than 30 schools applied for additional funding to support Pride initiatives throughout the month of June. Initiatives will include guest speakers, Pride picnics with neighbouring schools, flag raising ceremonies and many more inclusive events.
The Terry James Resource Centre has many resources available to students and staff at all grade levels to help celebrate Pride and Inclusion. Be sure to check out the TJRC website to access online platforms for these resources. Learn more on the TJRC website.
Students, staff and parents/guardians can access many Pride resources online including:
This June, and throughout the year, let’s continue working together to eliminate hate in our communities as we celebrate all things Pride!
Let us know how you’re celebrating Pride this month using #UGIncludesPride.