Members of Victoria’s mayor and council took time on the opening day of the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, to raise the rainbow flag at city hall.
The flag, a symbol of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, is being flown in recognition of the controversy surrounding the legal status of homosexuality in Russia and as a statement of support for Canada’s LGBT athletes.
“(It’s) recognizing no matter who you are and what you do, what’s important is the quality of the person you are, those are the things we focus on,” Mayor Dean Fortin said. “That is why it is with pride and honour that we raise the flag today.”
Fortin said he supports communities across Canada raising the flag and showing support for the rights and freedoms of individuals.
“I think it’s an important statement,” Fortin said.
