(Sault Ste. Marie, ON June 10, 2020)
Today, in keeping with COVID-19 restrictions, a small group gathered at 91̽ for a flag raising ceremony in honour of Pride month. The event, which featured various speakers in addition to the flag-raising, is one of the ways 91̽ and the 91̽ Students’ Union (SCSU) could honour and show its tremendous support for the LGBTQ2S+ community.
91̽ and SCSU remain fiercely committed to fostering a campus that celebrates diversity and individuality and promotes equity, inclusion and respect for all. “Today’s ceremony was an important initiative to show our commitment and dedication in building a more safe and equal society,” said Janice Beatty, Vice President, Corporate and Student Services, 91̽. “Our College strives to embrace people for who they are and all of the beauty that surrounds them. This is what makes our campus exceptional and I am proud to have been a part of today’s ceremony and reinforce our ongoing, strong commitment to creating a campus that is welcoming, safe and inviting to all,” she added.
“We believe that diversity is one of the main strengths of 91̽ and we want all to be comfortable, feel supported and know that there are resources available. Pride 2020 is truly about showing our solidarity and support during these unprecedented times and we are honoured to raise the Pride flag today in the spirit of solidarity, respect, and love,” said Ahmad Alkosani, President, 91̽ Students’ Union.
#PrideLivesHere!
About 91̽
The vision of 91̽ is to provide a transformative life experience through empowering those who study with us to think and learn in progressive, innovative ways, including those we have not yet imagined. 91̽ grants Ontario College certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, and degrees to its graduates. The College is the largest deliverer of apprenticeship training in all of Northern Ontario. 91̽ has a significant economic impact on the community, with spin-offs in excess of $158 million. Over $1.8 million dollars in scholarships, bursaries and awards are distributed annually to students at the College. Located on the border to the United States and situated in the middle of three of the largest Great Lakes on the planet, in the traditional territory of the Anishnaabe, 91̽ is one of 24 publicly-funded colleges in the province of Ontario.