The month of June is dedicated to the uplifting of 2SLGBTQ+ voices, celebrating the work of 2SLGBTQ+ activists and the 2SLGBTQ+ culture, and supporting their rights. Pride Month occurs in June to commemorate the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969.

Progressive crosswalk

Pride in EG!

The Town of East Gwillimbury believes in diversity and an inclusive environment for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We want EG to come together this month to recognize and help celebrate the importance of inclusion and diversity within our wonderful community.

EG Celebrates Pride 2023

On Thursday, June 1, together with representatives of Pflag York Region, and the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee of Council, East Gwillimbury is raising the Pride flag at the EG Civic Centre (19000 Leslie Street, Sharon). 

During the month of June, the Town is encouraging residents to express their messages of inclusion and belonging through sidewalk chalk messages.  

This year, EG is proud to participate in the York Pride parade on Saturday, June 17. For more information about the parade and York Pride events, visit the York Pride website.

2023 EG Events Calendar
Date and timeEventLocation
Thursday, June 1 at 9 a.m. Official Flag Raising EG Civic Centre
(19000 Leslie St., Sharon)
Thursday, June 8 at 6 p.m. DIY Pride Shirts Mount Albert Public Library
Thursday, June 15 at 6 p.m. DIY Pride Shirts

Holland Landing Public Library
Saturday, June 17 at 3 p.m. Pride Parade

Main St., Newmarket
Thursday, June 29 from 2 to 7 p.m. Pride at the Market EG Civic Centre
(19000 Leslie St., Sharon)

York Pride Fest

York Region is celebrating Pride month with a full line-up of events. For more information visit:

Website YouTube channel Facebook page Instagram Twitter

What is the meaning of the Pride Flag?

2018 pride flag

 

The Rainbow flag is used as a symbol of 2SLGBTQ+ pride and each colour has its own meaning. Red is life, orange is healing, yellow is sunshine, green is nature, blue is harmony and purple is spirit. The flag was altered in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter protests and those living with HIV/AIDS and those who have been lost. It now incorporates black and brown (for marginalized people of colour), and light blue and pink (to incorporate the colours of the trans community pride flag). The sideways arrows communicates progress being made but the white space is to show there is more work to be done.
How to be an ally and friend 
  1. Listen
  2. Be open-minded
  3. Be open and willing to talk
  4. Be inclusive
  5. Don't assume how someone identifies. Someone may be looking for support in their coming-out process and by not making assumptions, you give them the space they need.
  6. Speak out against Anti-2SLGBTQ+ comments and jokes. Let people know the things said are offensive and harmful.
  7. Confront your own bias and prejudice.
  8. Defend your 2SLGBTQ+ friends and family against discrimination.
  9. Believe that every person should be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of gender identity, pronouns, and sexual orientation.