Catholic Teachers Celebrate Pride 2025!

“Happy Pride month!

Catholic teachers proudly stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities — our students, colleagues, families, and neighbours — to celebrate diversity, affirm human dignity, and commit ourselves anew to the work of justice.

We do so grounded in our Catholic faith, which calls us to recognize the image of God in every person and to extend God’s love unconditionally. It is in this spirit of compassion, equity, and inclusion that we renew our call for every Catholic school board in Ontario to fly the Pride flag throughout the month of June.

The Pride flag is not a political symbol. It stands as a visible commitment to the safety, belonging, and affirmation of every member of our school communities, especially those who too often face marginalization, discrimination, and silence. Flying the Pride flag is an act of love. It says clearly: you are seen, you are valued, and you are accepted — just as you are.

In a time when 2SLGBTQIA+ communities are facing a resurgence of hate across Canada, and around the world, Catholic schools must choose courage over complacency. While many boards have embraced this expression of solidarity, others remain resistant. This resistance sends a harmful message, especially to young people seeking safety, support, and hope in our schools.

Let us be clear: creating inclusive, welcoming, and affirming Catholic schools is not contrary to our faith — it is a living expression of it. Jesus commands us to love one another as He loves us — without exception, without condition. The Pride flag complements the cross; it does not compete with it. It reflects our commitment to walk with those who are hurting, to speak up for those who are silenced, and to honour the inherent dignity of all God’s children.
Let us choose faith in action. Let us choose courage. Let us choose love.”

— René Jansen in de Wal, President of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association