Pride Flag Stolen, Flagpole Cut Down at Norwich School: OPP
Ontario Provincial Police are investigating after a Pride flag was stolen and a metal flagpole was cut down outside Emily Stowe Public School in Norwich. The incident occurred overnight on June 7, 2026, according to a statement from police.
School officials discovered the damage on Monday morning and contacted authorities. The flagpole had been sawed off at its base, and the Pride flag that had been flying was taken. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses.
This act of vandalism has shocked the community. Jennifer St Pierre, a local resident, shared a photo of the damaged flagpole on social media, expressing dismay. "It's disheartening to see such hate in our community," she wrote.
The school board has condemned the act and is working with police. Norfolk County OPP are asking anyone with information to come forward. This is not the first such incident in the region; similar thefts have been reported in other Ontario towns.
Community members have rallied in support, with plans to replace the flag and flagpole. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for a new, more secure installation. Organizers hope to send a message of inclusion and resilience.
The investigation is ongoing.
