News and Events

Pride crosswalk unveiled at Medicine Hat College

September 24, 2018
 

A Pride crosswalk was unveiled at Medicine Hat College (MHC) on Monday morning as a permanent symbol of inclusion and acceptance.

Led by the Students’ Association of Medicine Hat College (SAMHC), the initiative has the full support of the institution.

“We have tremendous encouragement from MHC, which to us symbolizes they stand by their statement that inclusion is necessary,” says Shelby Meyer, vice-president external of SAMHC. “We wanted to have a visual representation of inclusion on campus, for not only LGBTQ2+ but for all. It tells our students, staff and faculty that everyone has a place here.”

Pride crosswalk grand opening

Photo [left-right]: Wayne Resch, acting president, MHC; Irlanda Price, associate vice-president student development, MHC; Honourable Robert Wanner, MLA Medicine Hat; Shelby Meyer, vice-president external, SAMHC; Evelyn Schottner, vice-president internal, SAMHC; Evelyn Schottner; Beth Lewis, president SAMHC

The students’ association was eager to see a Pride crosswalk locally, explains Meyers.

“There are Pride crosswalks across Canada and so we thought ‘Why not in Medicine Hat?’ As an SA, we accept and recognize the risk that LGBTQ2+ students in our community may feel left out, and we wanted to ensure they knew that our campus is a place of acceptance.”

Meyers is hopeful that the crosswalk and celebrations during the week will encourage those seeking support to do so with the resources provided by SAMHC and the college.

Irlanda Price, associate vice-president of student development at MHC, mentions the crosswalk is a welcomed addition to campus.

“We are so excited to be part of the unveiling of the Pride crosswalk, because as an institution we strive to create an inclusive environment. We are mindful of providing supports for all of our students and are proud of the efforts of the SA. This is a momentous occasion for the college and for our community.”

For more information on the supports available to student through the SA visit samhc.ca or visit www.mhc.ab.ca to see the programs and services MHC offers.