WHEREAS The Town of Smiths Falls supports the rights of every citizen to experience equality and freedom from discrimination and accepts and welcomes people of diverse backgrounds and believes a diverse population leads to a more vibrant community; and

WHEREAS all people regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic characteristics or disability have the right to be treated on the basis of their intrinsic value as human beings; and

WHEREAS Pride Month is a month-long celebration that recognizes the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to society and is a time to acknowledge the challenges faced by this community and to stand in solidarity with their fight for equality, acceptance, and human rights. ; and

WHEREAS Pride Month is a joyful and colorful display of love, unity, and resilience, with events and activities that promote inclusivity, educate the public, and celebrate the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Shawn Pankow, Mayor of the Town of Smiths Falls, do hereby proclaim June 2025 as PRIDE Month in The Town of Smiths Falls, and encourage our residents to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality members of the LGBTQ+ community face and to celebrate the contributions that enhance our municipality.

AND THAT the PRIDE Flag Raising Ceremony will be held on June 6, 2025 at 4PM as a symbol of our community's commitment to inclusivity, acceptance, and support for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals during Pride Month.