Raising the bars

raisingthebars

The pride flag will be flown above the Gaspé town hall this month, thanks to the actions of one dedicated human rights activist.

Géraldine Fortin, our human rights representative for the Quebec region, approached her town’s mayor last week to convince him to recognize May 17: the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.

“I didn’t have to do a lot of convincing,” admits Fortin. “I had all my arguments ready – I didn’t need to use any.”

“It went really well. They were very open to the idea.”

This won’t be the first time that the town of Gaspé will make a statement in favour of free expression. During the most recent winter Olympics, Gapsé’s city hall was among countless others across the country that flew the pride flag in opposition to Russia’s draconian anti-gay laws.

For a town of just over 15,000 people, it’s a very powerful statement.

“It sends a message about openness to diversity,” says Fortin.

But this time, a UNE member will be the one hoisting the flag. That’s right; the mayor is delegating the honour to Fortin.

“I’m going to wear a shirt sporting the UNE logo,” said Fortin, proudly.

With May 17 fast approaching, Fortin is daring other members to do something similar in their communities.

“I’m sure there are similar actions that can be done,” said Fortin. “I’m sure I’m not the only one who lives in a small community.”

If you take up Géraldine Fortin’s challenge, please let us know by sending us an email.

In this photo: Daniel Côté, Gaspé mayor; Manon Minville, Local 10040; and Géraldine Fortin, human rights representative, Quebec.
In this photo: Daniel Côté, Gaspé mayor; Manon Minville, Local 10040; and Géraldine Fortin, human rights representative, Quebec.