For Immediate Release
June 10, 2021
STATEMENT: Mayor Crombie Responds to Pride Flag Burning at Cawthra Park Secondary School
“I am appalled and saddened that a pride flag was allegedly burned by Cawthra Park Secondary School students and posted to social media.
This is not what Mississauga stands for, and I condemn this act of hate in the strongest possible terms. It’s disgusting and unacceptable.
I am relieved that Peel Police are investigating the incident and that the Peel District School Board has also condemned this act.
I am sincerely sorry for any pain this has caused 2SLGBTQ+ community members here in our city and elsewhere.
This incident hits very close to home for me. I am a proud parent of a 2SLGBTQ+ son. And I can only imagine the hurt and concern an act like this could cause families with 2SLGBTQ+ children. Exploring and understanding sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression can be a very complex journey. And it deeply pains me to think that an act like this has the potential to intimidate and scare people from being open about who they truly are.
But I want to make it very clear to all 2SLGBTQ+ community members and families: As your Mayor, I will always stand up for you and defend you. You have my love and full support. You are an important part of our city.
You also have my word that along with members of my Council and City staff, I will continue to do everything I can to build a city that is as inclusive and accessible as it is diverse.
Love will always win over hate and discrimination.”
-Bonnie Crombie, Mayor of Mississauga