CFB Esquimalt will raise the Progress Pride flag for the first time as part of Transgender Day of Remembrance observances – November 20

Captain (Navy) Martin Coates, champion of the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization (DTPAO); Steve Cleugh, Civilian Chair of the DTPAO; Master Sailor Erin Rautenstrauch, Military Chair of the DTPAO; and Chief Petty Officer First Class Al Darragh, Base Chief, hold the Progress Pride Flag that will be raised at CFB Esquimalt for the first time on Saturday, Nov. 20.

Hadley Parsons
Deputy Base Communications Officer, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt
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While Transgender Day of Remembrance itself is a solemn occasion, a day meant to remember those who have lost their lives because of anti-transgender violence, the raising of the flag can hopefully serve as a symbol that celebrates progress made, and of hope for future progress.

“To me, this flag means that the RCN, and the CAF are becoming more inclusive. Meaning anyone of any gender, or orientation can serve their country proudly. Be it in uniform or civilian,” says Steve Cleugh, co-chair of the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization said that to him.

Designed in 2018, the Progress Pride flag retains the familiar six stripe rainbow, it adds in a chevron of white, pink and blue which represents the transgender community, as well as brown and black stripes which represent LGBTQ2+ people of colour. The black stripe also represents those living with HIV/AIDS and those who have been lost.

The flag’s designer, Daniel Quasar, used the chevron to denote forward movement, but placed it along the left side of the flag to show that there is still progress to be made for transgender rights and reducing discrimination.

“The inclusive nature of this flag and sombre mission of this day of remembrance brings to mind the first principle of the CAF Code of Values and Ethics. It tells us that we have an obligation, not just to the Defence Team, but to humanity, to respect the dignity of all persons,” says Captain (Navy) Jeff Hutchinson, Base Commander. “From this collective duty comes my conviction that each member is a vital and vibrant part of the rich tapestry that makes up CFB Esquimalt.”

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