DARRYL KNIGHT, The Standard
BROCK: At the Committee of the Whole meeting, on Monday, December 9th, Brock Township Council reviewed a report, presented by, Communications and Tourism Coordinator, Tamra Kaiser, proposing updates to the municipality’s Flag and Proclamation Policy. The changes aim to ensure clarity, consistency, and recognition of significant events and organizations.
“The proposed amendments reflect our commitment, to celebrating diversity and inclusivity, within our community,” Ms. Kaiser explained. “We’re also formalizing processes which have been in practice, ensuring they are transparent and accessible to all.”
The current policy, approved in February 2022, replaced the Township’s 2007 Half-Masting Policy. The updated version includes grammatical corrections, the addition of annual flag-raising events, and formal recognition of important national days of significance.
One notable change is the inclusion of Section 3.4, outlining annual flag-raising events which have become a tradition in Brock. These include observances such as Non-Profit Appreciation Week and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
For example, the Indigenous Flag will be raised on June 21st, for National Indigenous Peoples Day, and flown until June 30th.
“These updates ensure our policies reflect our community values and provide well-deserved recognition for these significant days,” Ms. Kaiser said.
The policy also outlines guidelines, for organizations wishing to request a flag-raising or proclamation. Most groups are expected to provide their own flags, though the Township occasionally covers costs for specific events, such as purchasing flags for Veterans Week or the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The Township emphasized the importance of flags, as symbols of pride and respect. The Community Flagpole, located at the Municipal Administrative Building, in Cannington, serves as a focal point for these celebrations.
“Our flag-raising events highlight the strength of Brock’s diversity and the incredible contributions of non-profits, volunteers, and marginalized communities,” Ms. Kaiser noted.
The policy also reiterates the Township’s commitment to half-masting flags, as an expression of collective mourning during times of loss.
If approved, the revised policy will streamline internal processes, provide clear guidelines for flag-raising requests, and ensure the community is informed and engaged.
“The amendments will help us maintain consistency while celebrating what makes Brock unique,” Ms. Kaiser concluded.
Council is expected to make a final decision on the proposed changes at an upcoming meeting. The updated policy will be made available, on the Township’s website, along with a communications plan, to ensure community involvement in future events.
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