New symbols of Pride celebrate Clarington’s commitment to inclusivity

As part of Pride Month, the Municipality of Clarington is showing its ongoing commitment to inclusion with the unveiling of new Pride displays across the community. Located at municipal recreation centres and libraries, new pole wraps and window installations signal that community spaces should be safe and welcoming for everyone.  

On June 25, Mayor Adrian Foster and Members of Council were joined by Clarington Pride and Durham Alliance Outreach at Courtice Community Complex to unveil one of the displays, with remarks highlighting the importance of visible inclusion in everyday public spaces. 

“Small symbols like this send a big message. Without a word, we loudly proclaim that ‘love is love’ and everyone deserves to feel safe to live authentically in Clarington. I’m proud to see these visible tokens of public support for 2SLGBTQIA+ residents. Unfortunately, hate and intolerance are in our midst, and we still have work to do to ensure that love and inclusion triumph over prejudice and discrimination,” said Mayor Adrian Foster. 

Shaped through consultation with the Clarington Diversity Advisory Committee, local 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations, and community members, feedback emphasized the importance of seeing Pride reflected across the community. The pole wraps and window installations were identified as a more cost-effective way to share a visible message of inclusion across multiple municipal facilities. Materials were selected for durability, including graffiti-resistant and anti-stick finishes to reduce maintenance. In 2025, Council directed staff to explore a second Rainbow Crosswalk, but costs had increased significantly since 2019. The new Pride displays provide a more affordable way to celebrate Pride at approximately $8,500, compared to more than $18,000 for a second crosswalk. 

“The Pride pole wrap is a beacon of hope, unity and resilience. It demonstrates Clarington’s shared commitment to creating an accepting and affirming community where everyone belongs and can be their authentic self,” said Beverley Neblett, Chair of Clarington’s Diversity Advisory Committee. 

The initiative supports Clarington’s 2024-27 Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism (IDEA) Strategy, which aims to strengthen belonging and support a community that is inclusive, equitable, and safe for everyone. Through the ongoing Together, We are Clarington campaign, residents are encouraged to inspire others, embrace diversity, and help build an inclusive community here at home. See how you can make a positive impact at www.clarington.net/BeTheChange.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Sarah Raso, Communications Officer
905-260-3495 | sraso@clarington.net