Today, the union representing EPL employees (CSU 52) posted a statement regarding a directive to remove Pride flags at Edmonton Public Library (EPL) branches. This is factually incorrect.
Nothing has changed at EPL. There has been no “directive” to remove Pride flags. EPL has never had a system-wide practice of displaying symbols, stickers and/or flags (Pride or otherwise). We do commemorate specific occasions throughout the year – for example Pride Month, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and so on.
EPL is committed to creating a welcoming and neutral environment that serves everyone, from all walks of life, regardless of their backgrounds, demographics, beliefs, or opinions. We pride ourselves on being a place of curiosity, ideas and learning. We demonstrate this daily by how we show up and how we treat customers.
Every individual, staff and customers, is important to us. This interpretation has suggested that we do not prioritize inclusion and belonging. You know from our work every day that nothing could be further from the truth.
We are disappointed with CSU’s misrepresentation of our organization and its values.