Halifax retirement home shows support for LGBTQ community, raises pride flag for first time

The rainbow flag is being prominently displayed for the first time at a retirement home in Halifax, as Halifax Pride Week activities ramp up.

Local entrepreneur and LGBTQ activist Neville MacKay proudly raised the flag on Thursday afternoon at Shannex’s Parkland at the Gardens, while a crowd of residents and staff cheered on.

It’s the first time a Shannex residence — and to their knowledge, any retirement home in the city — has raised the flag.

READ MORE: Halifax Pride Festival theme impacted by Orlando Shooting

MacKay says he was honoured to take part in the event because it shows how inclusive and accepting the retirement community can be.

“Years ago, I spoke with an older couple and their biggest fear was being put into a seniors home because they had lived their lives being who they are and suddenly they had to go and be somewhere and not be who they are,” MacKay said.

“And so, I’ve dreamt of days like this.”

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Maureen Banyard, who has lived at Parkland for more than three years, says she’s proud to see a shift in thinking among seniors.

“Remember, most of us are over 80 years of age and in the old days, everyone had a different opinion of what this was all about,” Banyard said.

“Today, people are far more open. They really believe and realize and recognize the fact that we are one. And we will be one.”

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The retirement home was compelled to take action after last month’s deadly shooting at a gay club in Orlando.

Parkland’s wellness coach, Melanie MacLeod, says it was too late to get involved in the parade but they wanted to do something to show their support.

“With that tragedy that took place, we thought it was really time for us to take a stand and show our support to the pride community,” she said.

“We thought we’d start with the flag this year and hopefully bigger and better things next year.”

Parkland hopes to take part in the parade next year and encourages other retirement communities to join in the festivities as well.