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A vibrant new flag now flies outside Peterborough Square, highlighting the Deaf community and their language, culture, and rights. People from the Deaf community, along with supporters, gathered at the corner of George and Simcoe Streets on Tuesday for the flag-raising ceremony.
The event marked International Week of the Deaf, celebrating the history, pride, and rights of Deaf residents while drawing attention to a community whose language and culture have too often been overlooked.
Speaking through a sign language interpreter, Barb Downey of DeafBlind Ontario Services says this annual event carries global significance.
This is the second year Peterborough has hosted a flag-raising ceremony, part of a growing movement to bring this celebration into local communities. According to Downey, the event is about visibility and building momentum.
The flag itself is full of symbolism, with every colour representing a piece of Deaf culture and identity. Downey explains its meaning.
Seeing the flag raised at Peterborough Square is an emotional moment for those who have worked to make it happen. Downey says it’s a powerful sign of support.
The hope is that the flag will not only spark conversation but also inspire change, while encouraging more people to learn about sign language, accessibility, and equity for the Deaf community.
By flying the flag downtown, Peterborough sends a message that Deaf culture and language matter—and that those who pass by and look up will see more than a flag. They’ll see a community being recognized, respected, and celebrated.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
