Unknown individuals vandalized a Norwich elementary school over the weekend by stealing a Pride flag and cutting down a metal flagpole. This incident occurred at Emily Stowe Public School on Jerdon Street in Norwich, Ont., and was reported to the Oxford OPP on Sunday.
According to police, the perpetrators, described as two white males in their late teens or early 20s, visited the school around 10:30 p.m. on Saturday. They allegedly removed a rainbow Pride flag that had been recently replaced, cut down the metal flagpole, and then fled towards Stover Street.
This act of vandalism follows a similar incident a week prior, where another Pride flag at the school was stolen and set on fire. The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) emphasized the importance of the Pride flag as a symbol of inclusivity and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The TVDSB condemned the actions, stating that such behavior fosters hatred and discrimination.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or relevant security footage to come forward and contact the Oxford OPP at 1-888-310-1122 to assist in the investigation.