Your Community
Welcome to Your Community, a new page dedicated to flag raisings, half-mastings and proclamation ceremonies.
We’re proud to recognize and support local community groups across Durham Region. One way we co-ordinate this, is through flag raising and proclamation ceremonies.
The diversity of Durham Region is one of our greatest strengths. It’s important to us to recognize significant observances, cultural celebrations, communities, causes or organizations. Together, we can help enhance public awareness, strengthen bonds, encourage dialogue and foster a sense of belonging and pride among community members.
There are four sets of flagpoles at Regional Headquarters—one of which is designated for community flags. You can find this set on the northeast portion of the property.
Community groups can apply to have a flag flown at Durham Regional Headquarters through the Community Flag Raising Application at least four weeks prior to the date the flag is requested to be flown.
We also lower our flags to half-mast as a sign of respect and to express sorrow during a time of national mourning. We do this to honour the passing of public figures, commemorate significant events or dates like Remembrance Day, or serve as a measure of respect and condolence during times of tragedy.
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International Day of Persons with Disabilities
True inclusion happens when accessibility is a guiding principle in everything we do. It means ensuring every person—regardless of ability—has an opportunity to participate fully in social, economic and cultural life.
In recognition of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3, the Region’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), Diversity Equity and Inclusion Division and myDurham 311, held an engaging event at Regional Headquarters. Attendees heard from Regional and local Councillors, Durham Deaf Services, Participation House and others.
To celebrate the contributions of people living with disabilities, and to reaffirm our commitment to building communities where diversity is embraced, barriers are removed and everyone can thrive, Regional Councillor, Marilyn Crawford, on behalf of Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry, has proclaimed December 3 as International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Durham Region.
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GivingTuesday
December 2 has officially been proclaimed as GivingTuesday in Durham Region.
GivingTuesday is the world’s largest generosity movement driven by individuals, charities and businesses. It inspires us to practise kindness and compassion—whether its making someone smile, helping a neighbour, supporting a cause or donating to those in need.
The GivingTuesday flag was raised at Regional Headquarters in support of this important initiative. Because when we support others where we live, we are building a community rooted in compassion and shared responsibility.
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Woman Abuse Prevention Month
November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, support survivors and work toward ending gender-based violence in all its forms.
Abuse can happen anywhere—at home, in workplaces, online, and in our communities. Its impact is devastating and long-lasting.
Everyone deserves to live free from fear and harm. By speaking up, learning the signs and supporting local organizations, we can help create safer spaces for women and girls.
Regional Headquarters will shine purple on November 25 as a symbol of hope and solidarity.
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International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Violence against women isn’t just unacceptable. It’s a violation of human rights.
Whitby Mayor and Regional Councillor, Elizabeth Roy, on behalf of Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry, proclaimed November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
As a region, we stand firmly against all forms of violence, including those rooted in gender. Every person has the right to live safely, with dignity and respect.
The Wrapped in Courage flag was raising at Regional Headquarters as a visible reminder to speak out, stand together and work toward a future where everyone can live free from violence.
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Shop in Durham Week
We have big reasons to shop local!
Today (November 24), Regional Councillor, Rhonda Mulcahy, on behalf of Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry, proclaimed November 23 to 29 as Shop in Durham Week!
During this week, we celebrate the small businesses that make our communities feel like home. Every local purchase matters—it supports jobs, strengthens our economy and keeps our neighbourhoods vibrant.
The Shop in Durham flag was raised at Regional Headquarters and will fly for the next week.
Find inspiration at ShopInDurham.ca.
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Transgender Day of Remembrance
Here in Durham Region, we proudly stand with the transgender community, and all members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. No matter your gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation, you should feel supported and welcomed in Durham Region.
Today (November 20), the Region’s Director of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division, Allison Hector-Alexander, on behalf of Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry, proclaimed November 20 as Transgender Day of Remembrance.
On this day, we honour those tragically lost to anti-transgender violence and reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive region where everyone can live authentically and free from harm.
As an act of solidarity and support for the transgender community, the Transgender flag was raised at Regional Headquarters.
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Louis Riel Day
Louis Riel’s story is one of resilience. He is remembered in history as a champion of Indigenous rights, a skilled negotiator and an advocate for inclusion and justice.
Whitby Mayor and Regional Councillor, Elizabeth Roy, on behalf of Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry, has proclaimed November 16 as Louis Riel Day in Durham Region.
On this day, we honour the life and legacy of someone who was a visionary leader and tireless defender of Métis rights and identity.
The Region acknowledged Louis Riel Day with a meaningful event that included smudging, remarks from representatives of the Oshawa & Durham Region Métis Council, drumming and the raising of the Métis flag.
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month
Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry, has proclaimed October as Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month in Durham Region.
This year’s ADHD Awareness Month theme of “The Many Faces of ADHD” highlights the diversity of abilities and strengths within the ADHD community. By sharing stories and perspectives, we can challenge stereotypes, reduce stigma and celebrate the creativity, resilience and innovation of individuals living with ADHD.
To mark this occasion, the ADHD flag will fly at Regional Headquarters until October 24.
