Politicians in Norwich will consider banning all flags, except those representing the official government, after past clashes over Pride flags that represent support for the LGBT community.
A motion has been introduced by Norwich Township Coun. John Scholten and is designed, according to its written description, to restore “peace, harmony and safety in our community.”
His motion calls for “only the three official government flags (federal, provincial, and municipal) be flown on any township property.” Councilors will vote on the motion April 25.
Tami Murray, chairman of the Oxford County Pride Committee, voiced her disappointment in the flag motion.
“I think it’s absolutely ridiculous,” she said. “I think the rationale of safety and security of the community is very contradictory, considering the actions that took place last year. It’s 2SLGBTQ-plus community who is actually at risk.
“We should be looking at raising flags that address accessibility, diversity, inclusivity.”
A second motion introduced by Coun. Alisha Stubbs will ask council to proclaim June Pride month in the community, located about 20 kilometers southeast of Woodstock.
While progress has been made, “further recognition, awareness and education related to the 2SLGBTQ-plus community is needed to prevent discrimination and promote inclusivity,” her motion reads.
The community has drawn scrutiny after several Pride flags were either stolen or desecrated several times.
Between May 20 and 24, 2022, police investigated the theft and vandalism of rainbow flags from Stover Street in Norwich. Surveillance footage showed three males wearing orange safety gear were involved in the thefts, police said.
Jake Dey was charged with theft of less than $5,000 after several Pride flags were stolen or vandalized in the community. Last June, he showed up as a citizen delegate at a council meeting and was allowed to speak for 30 minutes, citing the Bible and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in criticism of LGBT rights.
He drew comparisons between Nazis and Pride, which he called a social movement, and said his purpose was “to educate council” and the public about the messages Pride flags convey and, as he described it in a letter to politicians, “the experiences this triggered for myself and family.”
In December, the criminal charges against Dey were dropped.
Calls to Stubbs and Scholten were not returned Friday.