A drive-thru giveaway was part of the first day of Pride Week at Medicine College on Sept. 14, 2020. (Photo Courtesy of Chris Brown)

By Chris Brown

Diversity and inclusion

Medicine Hat College celebrating Pride Week differently this year

Sep 14, 2020 | 4:35 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – It will be more subdued than usual but Medicine Hat College is still celebrating Pride Week.

The week kicked off at 9 a.m. Monday with the raising of the Pride flag at the college and a drive-thru giveaway happened at the main entrance at noon.

Goodie bags stuffed with lanyards, notepads and other swag were handed out, as well as You Matter cards. “You Matter” has become a rallying cry around Medicine Hat with rising concerns surrounding mental health issues and suicides in recent months.

Even though most students aren’t on campus this year due to public health guidelines, leadership of the Students’ Association of Medicine Hat College felt it was important to hold the events.

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“I think it’s still important to make sure our campus celebrates diversity the best we can and make sure everyone feels included event though there’s not that many students on campus,” said Taylor Ohs, vice-president of community and wellness.

Other campus events planned include an office decorating contest, Tight and Bright Zumba and virtual fun and games trivia.

Ohs said any students who want to show support can reach out to the Students’ Association.

“We’re open Monday to Friday, we’re always there for students. If we can’t help you we’ll resource you out. We just try to do anything we can for students,” she said.

Celebrations are also taking place at the college’s Brooks campus.

A flag-raising happened on Monday and a Pride crosswalk will be painted Tuesday.

A statement from the campus administrator says it highlights the college’s support for inclusivity and equality in the community.

Staff and students volunteered their time to complete the project.

A Pride flag was raised at Medicine Hat City Hall last week by the Medicine Hat Pride Association. Its regular yearly festivities were called off due to COVID-19 restrictions.