In honour of National Indigenous History Month and Pride Month, the Municipality of Kincardine has revealed two new murals at the Kincardine Centre for the Arts on 707 Queen St. in downtown Kincardine, Ont. These murals on garage doors indicate the community’s dedication to reconciliation, healing, and inclusivity. Created by two artists, the murals feature vinyl wraps adhered to the doors, which were supplied by Gabe Nowak of Ontario-based HAVE1.com.

One mural features a land acknowledgment, recognizing the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. It was created by Ojibway artist Jeffrey “Red” George (Ma-Mi-No-ga-boo). Titled “Seven Generations,” it portrays an eagle feather design, symbolizing honour and respect in Indigenous culture. Within the eagle feather design are seven circles, each representing one of the seven sacred grandfather teachings: honesty, truth, love, respect, bravery, wisdom, and humility.

The design of the second mural, a Progressive Pride Flag, is credited to Daniel Quasar, based on the original Pride Flag created by Gilbert Baker. This rendition of the flag features a chevron composed of black, brown, blue, pink, and white, set upon the rainbow. The six original Pride colours carry distinct meanings, yet together represent hope. In the expanded Pride flag, the extra five colours hold their own significance, with black and brown representing marginalized communities, and blue, pink, and white representing Trans Pride.

Through these murals, the community aims to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in public spaces. “These garage doors allow us the opportunity to acknowledge and recognize the contributions and achievements of Indigenous peoples to our lands. It also allows us the ability to reflect and recognize the many injustices and past wrongs,” says deputy mayor Andrea Clarke. “June is the month in which we also celebrate Pride. We stand united with the 2SLGBTQ+ community in the fight for equity and justice,” she adds.