Saskatoon votes to hoist rainbow flag
Will fly at city hall for duration of Sochi Winter Olympics
City councillors in Saskatoon have voted to let the rainbow flag fly.
The rainbow is meant to symbolize diversity and inclusiveness for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The flag has been banned in Russia, with laws passed prior to the Sochi Winter Olympics prohibiting the spread of so-called gay propaganda.
While homosexuality is legal in Russia, athletes competing in Sochi may be arrested if they speak about same-sex rights, or display any pride-related symbols.
Members of Saskatoon's Avenue Community Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity urged the city to join the provincial legislature and other Canadian cities in hoisting the rainbow flag at city hall.
Moose Jaw and Regina have also opted to fly the rainbow flag at their respective city halls for the duration of the Olympics.