On Tuesday, June 24, the Town of Hawkesbury raised the Intersex-Inclusive Pride Flag (IIPF) outside the town hall on Higginson Street to recognize and celebrate gender and sexual diversity.

Hawkesbury Mayor Lefebvre, municipal staff, firefighters, and OPP Hawkesbury Detachment officers were present for the Intersex-Inclusive Pride Flag raising at the town hall. Photo: Philip Oddi.

Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) stated that the current version of the IIPF is a redesign of the Progress Pride Flag, created by activist Daniel Quasar in 2018.

In 2021, activist Valentino Vecchietti updated the design by adding a purple circle over a golden yellow triangle, which symbolizes wholeness, completeness, and the potentialities of intersex people.

The Intersex-Inclusive Pride Flag at Hawkesbury Town Hall. Photo: Philip Oddi.

Mayor Robert Lefebvre reaffirmed the town’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating diversity in Hawkesbury, saying, “It’s a time to celebrate, reflect, and continue working towards equality for all.”

“We honour the strength, resilience, and the invaluable contributions of those in our community. Together, we stand in solidarity with those who have fought and continue to fight for a safe, inclusive space where everyone can express themselves freely and with pride,” Lefebvre concluded.

The Provincial Flag of Ontario and the Intersex-Inclusive Pride Flag raised at Hawkesbury Town Hall. Photo: Philip Oddi.