June is Pride Month, but Durham College (DC) proudly raised the Intersex Inclusive Pride flag at the Oshawa campus a day early.

The flag, hoisted at the corner of Conlin Road East and Simcoe Street North on Wednesday, May 31, serves as a symbol of DC’s commitment to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive campus.

Dr. Elaine Popp, executive vice president, Academic, was on hand to reaffirm DC’s commitment to the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.

“Today, we celebrate together and offer a safe space for everyone to express themselves authentically. Today, we stand together and stand proud,” she said.

Speaking to the assembled crowd, she credited the efforts of the DC Pride Collective, which supports the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community through training, programming and partnerships, as well as the DC Pride Coalition, a student social group which helps build community and belonging.

After the flag was raised, revellers gathered in the South Village Courtyard for the Pride BBQ and celebration: Together Always, United in Diversity!

Students, staff, and faculty enjoyed great food, music and drag performances, as well as fun activities like giant Jenga and giant chess.

The message of the event was clear; everybody is welcome at DC.