Petawawa is taking a look at a 23-year-old policy that has prevented the Pride flag from flying in town.

A request to have the rainbow flag raised outside of town hall for the month of June for Pride month was denied back in April.

Deputy Mayor Gary Serviss put forward a notice of motion to reconsider the policy at the June 21st council meeting. Serviss noted that sometimes a small gesture like raising a flag can go a long way.

Mayor Bob Sweet says the original flag flying policy was adopted in 1998 and reviewed again in 2013 and has not been challenged.

Councillor James Carmody says a lot has changed since the document was last reviewed 8-years ago and says he would be happy to second the motion to move on this and make a change.

Councillor Theresa Sabourin recognized that equality is not something that we all enjoy and added she would like to see the policy reviewed and sent back to staff.

Councillor Matthew McLean also voiced his support for changing the policy.

In order to change the policy, two thirds of council will need to vote in favour of motion.

Staff will prepare a document with more information for the June 21st council meeting.

Earlier today (June 7th, 2021), the Renfrew County District School Board raised the Pride flag at all schools across the district.

Other municipalities in the Ottawa Valley such as Pembroke, Renfrew, Arnprior and Deep River have previously raised the Pride flag.

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