With the refresh of the pride crosswalks, a new pink bench has been installed at the corner of Beckwith and Church Street as part of a new inclusion corner within the downtown.

The colour pink was chosen as it is a recognized colour for anti-bullying across Canada. Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 when two students stood up against homophobic bullying after a new student was harassed for wearing pink. They distributed pink shirts to classmates, and the movement has since spread.

The pink bench suggestion was first brought forward by Community Services Coordinator, Tana Torch. “My hope is that the inclusion corner can become a focal point for our community engagement, where individuals from different walks of life can come together to celebrate diversity, share experiences, and foster understanding. But ultimately, the pink bench represents a celebration of love, acceptance, and diversity, reminding everyone who passes by that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of who they are or who they love.”

The Smiths Falls For All Committee discussed the initiative at a recent committee meeting, and were in full support of the inclusion corner and what it represents. The Smiths Falls For All Committee is responsible for advancing the Town’s efforts to further develop a diverse and inclusive community that provides equality to all its citizens.

“With the assistance and support from the Town, we are hoping to implement various initiatives throughout the term that support our mandate”, noted Mayor Pankow, chair of the committee. “An inclusive environment promotes empathy, respect for human rights, and freedom, creating a harmonious society where everyone feels valued and free to contribute positively. When there’s diversity and inclusion in our community, it significantly strengthens social cohesion.”

Joanne Plontz

Communications and Marketing Coordinator

77 Beckwith Street N, Box 695

Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2B8

613-283-4124 ext. 1122