Union says Pride flags banned from Edmonton Public Library, library disputes claim

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The union representing Edmonton Public Library (EPL) staff says members have recently been ordered to remove Pride flags displayed within public areas in their workspace.

CSU52 is calling the move “censorship,” and says it not only impacts LGBTQ2S+ staff and visitors, but represents a significant step backwards in the library’s work on enhancing accessibility and inclusion.

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The union says the library indicates in its 2024-2026 strategic goals and business plan it is “dedicated to identifying ways to make our physical and digital spaces inviting and welcoming, fostering a sense of belonging for all.”

The union says Pride flags are a universally understood signal of inclusion.

“They serve as beacons of support and to let people who are amongst the most traditionally underrepresented and historically oppressed know that they will be treated with dignity and respect, and that discrimination and bigotry will not be tolerated,” CSU52 said in a memo.

The union is calling on EPL and city council to reconsider the ban.

In a written statement, EPL says there has been no directive to remove Pride flags.

“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,” the library said in the statement.

“Nothing has changed at EPL. There has been no “directive” to remove Pride flags.”

EPL says it is disappointed with the union’s “misrepresentation of our organization and its values.”