Shoppers, students and neighbours are noticing more flags , and Stratford-Perth Pride is fundraising to hang intersex-inclusive Progress Pride flags across Stratford and nearby towns to boost visibility, counter recent vandalism, and signal welcome from May through September.

Essential Takeaways

  • Expanded visibility: Stratford-Perth Pride aims to fly flags on about a third of downtown light posts and along Lakeside Drive for greater presence.
  • New flag choice: The intersex-inclusive Progress Pride flag combines the classic rainbow with added chevrons and an intersex symbol for broader representation.
  • Response to vandalism: The push followed recent Pride flag vandalism at several local schools, prompting wider community solidarity.
  • Timing and logistics: The group plans to display flags from May to September and is fundraising, with the city assisting with installation.
  • Practical feel: Flags are visible from streets and parade routes, giving a colourful, welcoming look that’s easy for residents to spot.

Why Stratford is doubling down on visible support

Streets feel friendlier when colourful flags flutter above them, and Stratford-Perth Pride is betting on that simple, visual cue to remind residents they’re welcome. The initiative grew out of already-encouraging displays at City Hall, the Stratford Festival and local shops, and now organisers want a more consistent presence downtown and along the parade route. Given recent vandalism at several schools, this isn’t just about celebration , it’s about reassurance.

Community leaders say a regular, prominent display helps shift the tone of public space. According to organisers, the plan is to cover roughly one-third of light posts downtown and along Lakeside Drive, which makes the flags highly visible during events and everyday life. If you’ve ever walked past a cluster of flags and felt a lift, you’ll understand why they’re prioritising quantity and consistency.

What makes the intersex-inclusive Progress Pride flag different

The intersex-inclusive Progress Pride flag builds on the iconic rainbow but adds a chevron of black, brown and light blue/white to acknowledge marginalised communities, plus a yellow triangle with a purple circle that explicitly represents intersex people. Museums and cultural institutions have been highlighting this version as a more inclusive evolution of Pride symbols. It’s a small design change with a clear message: not everyone fits into the original six-colour rainbow, and these additions make that visible.

For local groups choosing flags, this matters because representation signals who is being thought of. The visual cue of the intersex symbol is subtle but important , it tells intersex residents and families they’re counted, not an afterthought.

How fundraising and logistics are unfolding

Stratford-Perth Pride is raising money, including via a GoFundMe, to buy the flags and has secured the city’s cooperation to hang them. That partnership matters; the council’s help with installation and removal makes seasonal displays easier to sustain. Organisers hope to display flags from May through September, giving months of visibility that cover the parade and much of the warmer season.

If you’re thinking of helping, small donations add up quickly because the cost per flag and installation mounts when you’re aiming to cover dozens of posts. Local businesses and residents can also volunteer to sponsor specific poles, which keeps the project community-driven and tangible.

Why this matters for schools and young people

Schools hit by flag vandalism felt it deeply because flags often act as everyday signals of safety for pupils. When a display meant to communicate welcome is damaged, it sends a contrary message , intentional or not , about who belongs. Increasing the number and locations of flags spreads that message of welcome beyond a single banner, making the sentiment harder to erase.

Parents and educators say repeated, persistent displays can reinforce a sense of belonging for students who might otherwise feel invisible. That’s why organisers chose an intersex-inclusive flag: it speaks to a broader range of identities that young people might be exploring or living.

Looking ahead: what this could do for community tone

More flags mean more conversations , and that’s usually a good thing. Visible commitment from civic partners and local groups can shift the tenor of a town, making inclusivity a shared, everyday value rather than a once-a-year event. There’s a practical upside too: consistent, seasonal displays make it simpler for city staff to plan installation and maintenance.

Expect neighbours to notice the colour change on street corners and for local businesses to lean into the supportive vibe. If you want to get involved, check Stratford-Perth Pride’s fundraiser or ask at your local shop about sponsoring a flag.

It's a small, visible step that can make public spaces feel safer and more welcoming for everyone.

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