Proclamations – June 2026
Pride Month
WHEREAS, the Town of Aylmer recognizes that diversity is a vital and integral part of our community that is celebrated and strengthens our town, and
WHEREAS, there is a necessity to actively support Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender, two-spirited, Queer, and all other sexual orientation and gender identities (LGBTQ+) within our community; and to commemorate sexual and gender minorities’ liberation; and
WHEREAS, annual Pride celebrations are a positive statement against discrimination and violence towards LGBTQ people and promote their self-affirmation, dignity, equality rights, increases their visibility as a minority, builds community acceptance and celebrates sexual diversity and gender variance; and
WHEREAS, we should take pride in our identities and never feel we must hide who we are at work, school or within our families and communities; and
WHEREAS, Pride Month in Aylmer is an opportunity to raise awareness and encourage acceptance of every human person. It will encourage the development of harmonious relationships amongst all members of the community as well as prevent potential discrimination towards its citizens; and
WHEREAS, the rainbow flag is the most-recognized LGBTQ symbol and will be raised on the courtesy flagpole located outside of Aylmer town hall and is intended to show support for the Rainbow Community as well as show the commitment of our community to provide a safe and welcoming place that improves the overall quality of life for all members; and
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Jack Couckuyt, do hereby declare June as PRIDE MONTH in the Town of Aylmer, and encourage all our citizens to support an inclusive and respectful community where all citizens can live, work and play in a safe and secure environment as we take pride in our diversity and celebrate our differences.
Seniors Month
WHEREAS, Seniors’ Month is an annual province-wide celebration;
WHEREAS, seniors have contributed and continue to contribute immensely to the life and vibrancy of this community;
WHEREAS, their contributions past and present warrant appreciation and recognition and their stories deserve to be told;
WHEREAS, the health and well-being of seniors is in the interest of all and further adds to the health and well-being of the community;
WHEREAS, the knowledge and experience seniors pass on to us continues to benefit all;
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Jack Couckuyt, on behalf of the Town of Aylmer Council, do hereby proclaim June as Seniors’ Month in the Town of Aylmer and encourage all citizens to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our seniors.
LemonAID Day, June 13th, 2026
WHEREAS the Elgin Children’s Foundation serves as a vital resource for children and youth in St. Thomas and Elgin who rely on the services of Family and Children’s Services; and,
WHEREAS the Elgin Children’s Foundation is committed to raising critical funds and fostering community awareness through a variety of campaigns including LemonAID Day; and,
WHEREAS LemonAID Day encourages residents of all ages across Elgin County to participate by hosting a lemonade stand where all funds raised go directly to sending deserving children to camp connected with Family and Children’s Services of St. Thomas and Elgin; and,
WHEREAS LemonAID Day empowers young people across Elgin County to develop entrepreneurial skills, teamwork, and social responsibility.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Jack Couckuyt, on behalf of the Town of Aylmer Council, do hereby proclaim Saturday June 13th, 2026, as “LemonAID Day” in the Town of Aylmer.
Kin Canada Week
WHEREAS Kin Canada has been a vibrant and responsible all-Canadian service organization devoted to serving communities across Canada since 1920; and,
WHEREAS Kin Canada clubs and their members have demonstrated excellence, pride, integrity, inclusiveness, and compassion in their pursuit of further enriching our community; and,
WHEREAS Kin Canada is celebrating its 106th anniversary in 2026; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Aylmer is pleased to recognize the contributions of the Kinsmen Club of Aylmer through a flag raising ceremony on June 22, 2026, with the Kin Canada flag to remain raised until July 2, 2026, in recognition of Kin Canada Week and the community spirit surrounding the annual Canada Day fireworks hosted by the Kinsmen Club.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Jack Couckuyt, on behalf of the Town of Aylmer Council, do hereby proclaim the week of June 22 to July 2, 2026 as “Kin Canada Week” in the Town of Aylmer.
Flag Raising Ceremony
A flag raising ceremony for this proclamation will be held on Monday June 22nd, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Town Hall, 46 Talbot Street West, Aylmer. All are welcome to attend.