‘Backwards’: Union decries Pride flag removals from Edmonton public libraries

The union representing library employees is decrying the removal of Pride flags from at least two Edmonton Public Library (EPL) branches as a step backwards for inclusion.

Civic Service Union 52 says staff at the branches were told by management to remove all Pride flags displayed in public areas of their workplaces. The rainbow flag, particularly when placed in public locations, has come to be the universal symbol of acceptance and safety for the members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

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In a news release Thursday, the union called the move “censorship,” saying it is harmful to the public and employees who are members of or supporters of this community, and a “significant step backwards” in the library’s work toward being more inclusive.

”Prohibiting the display of Pride flags within the library calls into question EPL’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion — particularly in a sociopolitical climate that has been fraught with attacks on the rights of the LGBTQ2S+ community,” the statement signed by local president Bryce Jowett and other CSU 52 leadership members states.

“Now, more than ever, it is critical that community- and youth-serving organizations such as EPL step up and visibly enhance their support of marginalized communities — not retract it.”

The library put out a statement saying there’s no system-wide directive to remove flags, and there’s been no policy change to remove flags.

The union argues the removals violate EPL’s current business plan, which notes a dedication to finding ways to make its physical and digital spaces welcoming.

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It also penned a letter to city council asking whether EPL’s stance aligns with goals for municipal institutions.

Postmedia has reached out to EPL for comment, but it declined an interview.

More to come…

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