As Monday’s sun made its way toward the horizon, a crew began working on a project to shine a light on a gesture of inclusivity at Queen’s. Crosswalks at the intersection of Bader Lane and University Avenue, and in front of Duncan McArthur Hall on Union Street were painted in the colours of the Progress Pride flag – red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, pink, baby blue, black, and brown.

June is Pride Month, representing a moment to honour and support members of the LGBTQ2S+ community.

“It’s extremely important the university always creates a welcoming environment for everyone at the university and we can do that through small and large gestures,” says Tony Gkotsis, Director, Campus Planning and Real Estate. “Every opportunity we have to create a welcoming environment for all of our population, we need to take those opportunities.”

Gkotsis says his office is open to ideas from the community regarding future projects like this.

“I am thrilled that we were able to make this crosswalk project happen this year, showing support to our students and the community during Pride Month,” says Donna Janiec, Vice-Principal (Finance and Administration). “Queen’s is a place that strives to be welcoming to everyone.”

Approval for the crosswalk painting was required by the City of Kingston, along with utilization of the same company that painted the crosswalk in front of City Hall.

This project is one of several serving as a visual representation of the support for the Queen’s and broader LGBTQ2S+ community on campus. On June 1, the Progress Pride flag was raised on the flagpole adjacent to the John Deutsch Student Centre for the entire month. Additional resources include the Positive Space Campaign, Levana Gender Advocacy Centre, Queen’s University Association for Queer Employees, and the Provost's Action Group for Gender and Sexual Diversity. A list of resources can be found on the Inclusive Queen’s page.

“Queen's is committed to making all students feel welcome on our campus,” says Patrick Deane, Principal and Vice-Chancellor. “The crosswalks as well as the Progress Pride flag indicate this is an inclusive place and that we value and support diversity in our community.”

Another way in which that support is given is through the Positive Space Campaign. Visually represented with an inverted rainbow triangle behind the Queen’s ‘Q,’ this movement supports members of the LGBTQ2S+ community by sending a clear message that everyone is welcomed at Queen’s and that this is a safe space.

Students, staff, faculty, and visitors will notice Positive Space stickers affixed to windows and doors throughout the university community. Like those decals, the hope is to create life lessons and dialogues that stick with us, creating a more diverse and inclusive society.

Throughout June, Queen’s University will highlight several resources available to our students, staff, and faculty and point to several events taking place in Kingston this month. Continue to visit Queen’s social media platforms as we highlight organizations around campus throughout the month of June. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Pride Parade on Princess Street, which takes place June 18 starting at 11 a.m.

Learn more about the Progress Pride flag on the Yellow House website.