I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize Pride Month in Ontario. This is an opportunity for all Ontarians to come together to celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community that has been so important to the cultural fabric and economic prosperity of our province. They’ve brought so much joy, colour and love to the province of Ontario.

Ontario is a place that values and is strengthened by equality, diversity and inclusion. It is a place where people from all walks of life come together to build a society and to build a home that celebrates the uniqueness of each individual. Pride is a shining example of this unity, a celebration that reminds us of the progress that we have made and the work that still lies ahead.

Our government has been helping, protecting and promoting diverse Ontarians since day one and we will continue to do just that. That’s why we’re proud to support so many 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations, not only in Toronto but across the province, such as North Bay Pride, Ottawa Pride and Stratford Pride. I was honoured to be a part of the Pride event in the town of Napanee in Hastings–Lennox and Addington just this last weekend.

Each year, we support the work they do to help empower and celebrate community and foster a more inclusive province. We’re also rolling out additional resources, like the Anti-Racism and Anti-Hate Grant and the anti-hate security grant, which will help protect community spaces for organizations that serve vulnerable communities and the anti-racism movement.

This month, Ontarians will proudly wave our rainbow flags, a symbol of pride and resilience. These colours represent the diversity within the community and the countless struggles that they have faced and overcame. They represent the strength and the courage of individuals who have fought for their rights and paved the way for a more inclusive society.

In honour of the many battles fought and being fought to ensure the acceptance of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and Ontarians, we will continue to celebrate the freedoms that have been earned through the dedication and activism of countless individuals who have fought for justice and equality, many of whom are in this room.

Pride is more than a celebration; it is a reminder of the ongoing journey towards freedom, acceptance and understanding. It is a call to action for all of us to stand up against hate, discrimination and prejudice. It is an opportunity to educate ourselves and others and to build bridges of understanding and empathy.

From arts and culture to politics and business, LGBTQ+ community members have enriched this province in countless ways. They have inspired us with their creativity, leadership, resilience and hope. They have shown us that embracing diversity and inclusion is not just the right thing to do; it is the key to our collective growth and prosperity.

As we come together to celebrate Pride Month in Ontario, let us remember that our work is not done, that all members of this House can agree there is no place for hate in Ontario, and we all must stand up against homophobia, transphobia and all forms of discrimination. Our government will continue to work together with the community to promote equality and inclusivity in our schools, our workplaces and our communities.

So today, let’s take this opportunity to celebrate love, acceptance and pride. Let us cherish the progress we’ve made and look forward to the future with hope, optimism and determination. Together, we can build a stronger Ontario where everyone is welcomed and accepted, regardless of who they are or who they love.

Applause.