The weather was ideal as he Town of Saugeen Shores proudly marked the beginning of Pride Month with the annual Pride Flag Raising event held on June 1, 2026, at the Municipal Office.
The eighth annual event brought together Council, Town staff, community partners, and residents in a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community vibrancy at the newly located flag poles in the courtyard of the Plex.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau was joined by Saugeen First Nation Chief Conrad Ritchie, Grey Bruce Pride Chair Rachel Paterson, and Owen Sound PFLAG Co-chair Nina Andic, who each shared remarks and highlighted the importance of fostering a welcoming community for all.
Paterson also pointed out that the month of June is also Indigenous History month with Indigenous People’s Day taking place on June 21st.
“The Pride Flag Raising is an important opportunity for our community to come together and reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, respect, and belonging for all,” said Mayor Charbonneau. “In Saugeen Shores, we are proud to celebrate the diversity that strengthens our community and to stand alongside our residents.”
He also reflected on the symbolism of the Pride choice of the ‘rainbow’. I am always amazed at the choice that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community made when they selected the rainbow. As long as anyone can remember they faced only difficulty, abuse, violence and, yet somehow, they found in themselves to select the world’s most ancient symbol of hope for their banner. I think that’s tremendously brave. I think it says something that all of us can learn from. The world is a difficult place and it feels sometimes that it gets more and more difficult and we all face challenges in our own lives. If we tend to feel despair or sadness and things are darkest or seem most bleak, always remember that the sky will clear, the sun will shine … and there will be a rainbow and there is always reason to hope.”
Saugeen First Nation Chief Conrad Ritchie, as said that as leaders, they have to set an example for young people. “People have to realize that we are more the same than we are different and we are stronger when we come together as a community.”
The Pride Flag will remain raised at the Municipal Office throughout June as a symbol of unity and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This year’s event expanded to include interactive activities such as community chalk art and games, creating additional opportunities for residents to connect and celebrate together. Community and Economic Development staff were also onsite to engage with local businesses and distribute Pride Ally Window decals, helping increase the visibility of inclusive spaces throughout the community.
The Town of Saugeen Shores remains committed to fostering a vibrant place to live and visit where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Events like the Pride Flag Raising reflect the Town’s ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion, and respect, while recognizing the diversity that strengthens both the community and the local economy.
