Statement from the Warden: Pride flag vandalism in Norwich Township

I was deeply saddened to learn of the recent vandalism involving a Pride flag in Norwich Township. 

While a flag can be replaced, the message behind an act like this cannot be ignored. It was an attempt to intimidate and exclude people for simply being themselves, and that message has no place in Oxford County.

Just days ago, communities across Oxford County came together to mark the beginning of Pride Month. As we raised Pride flags, we spoke about the importance of belonging — of being able to live openly, safely and authentically in your own community.

Incidents like this remind us why that conversation matters, particularly for members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who continue to experience acts of exclusion and discrimination.

The new Safe and Well Oxford Plan identifies "people and belonging" as one of six priority areas because a sense of belonging matters. It matters to individual well-being and to the strength of our communities. Acts of exclusion and intimidation do more than target individuals. They send a message that belonging is conditional, and that some people are less welcome than others.

I do not believe this incident reflects who we are as a community. Nor does it outweigh the actions of the many residents, families, neighbours, volunteers and community organizations who continue to choose kindness and inclusion every day. 

That gives me hope.

The answer to acts of exclusion is not silence. It is the everyday courage to choose compassion over division and love over fear.

Warden Marcus Ryan
Oxford County