Dear Editor,
When Wellington Heights Secondary School (WHSS) in Mount Forest opened its doors in 2004, there was concern on how the integration of rival schools would unfold.
Of course there were growing pains, but in large measure, students welcomed each other, and were welcomed by staff, in the spirit of the new school’s motto: “Pride, Respect and Friendship.”
This motto of inclusion and acceptance of others is what some members of our community and the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) need to be reminded of again today. I say this after reading about the Pride Flag being taken down at WHSS due to complaints and ultimately the cowardice of UGDSB to stand up for what is right and reasonable. I am deeply disappointed that through an “interpretation” of federal “guidance” on how to hang a flag, that the complaints of the few will translate into a manifestation of intolerance and homophobia in our community.
Perhaps those who complained got what they wanted through a technicality. But they are not going to stop our community from living in the 21st century. Let’s stand up for inclusiveness! Our students surely are.
In solidarity with the students. In solidarity with the LGBTQ community. In solidarity with progressiveness.
James Craig
WHSS Class of 2007
James Craig