WCDSB Trustees Defeat Motion to Ban Pride Flags

The Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) voted to defeat a motion that would have banned the flying of Pride flags and other political symbols at its schools, following weeks of heated debate and protests from both supporters and opponents. Trustee Conrad Stanley, who proposed the ban citing concerns over divisiveness, attempted to amend the motion to focus on institutional neutrality, but this was ultimately deemed too substantial a change. The decision drew significant public engagement, with over 200 people attending the board meeting and student-led protests occurring outside Kitchener’s city hall. Supporters of the Pride flag, including students, clergy, and trustees, argued that its presence promotes inclusiveness and representation for 2SLGBTQ+ students. The Pride flag has been flown at WCDSB schools each June since 2021, a gesture that students say signals acceptance and diversity within the Catholic education system. Ultimately, the board's decision was celebrated by those advocating for visible support of marginalized communities in schools.