Media Release: Pride Flag Destruction Incidents at Emily Stowe Public School

The Corporation of the Township of Norwich 

Media Release - Pride Flag Destruction at Emily Stowe Public School

The Township of Norwich is aware of the acts of vandalism that took place at Emily Stowe Public School on June 1 and June 6, 2026, where Pride flags and the school’s flagpole were destroyed. 
One of the goals in Council’s Strategic Plan is for ‘A Healthy and Safe Community’, and this kind of vandalism and destruction has no place in our community. The Township stands against acts of violence towards any group within our community and believes that Norwich should be safe and welcoming for everyone.

Mayor Jim Palmer said that “acts of vandalism and violence like the recent destruction of Pride Flags at Emily Stowe Public School have no place in the Township of Norwich. The Township is committed to encouraging a welcoming community where all of our residents and visitors treat each other with respect and dignity.”

The Township marked Pride Month in Oxford County by flying the Pride Flag at the Norwich Community Centre from June 1 to June 8, 2026. 

Media Contact: 
Matt Smith, Chief Administrative Officer 
Township of Norwich 
285767 Airport Road, Norwich 
cao@norwich.ca, 519-667-2000 ext. 7615