REGINA — Pride advocates gathered at Friday's flag-raising ceremony at Regina City Hall voiced disappointment over Mayor Chad Bachynski's absence from the event.
The annual ceremony marks the beginning of Pride Week in Regina. While the city's mayors have traditionally taken part in raising the Pride flag, this year, Ward 7 Coun. Shobna Radons attended on behalf of the city.
Advocates attending questioned why the event wasn’t a priority for the mayor, saying it's an important event that should be attended by the mayor.
One advocate said, “We need to be louder, we need to be prouder, we need to be out there.”
The flag-raising ceremony is viewed as an important opportunity for the Pride community to support and give visibility to those who may not feel safe or comfortable being open about their identity.
In an emailed statement, the mayor’s office said both Bachynski and the city remain committed to Pride Month.
“Mayor Bachynski is planning to join in the 2026 Pride Parade on June 13. The City of Regina also has several vehicles and employees that will be participating in the parade.”
Bachynski was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict, as he is currently at the annual Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference.
The mayor’s office also indicated that Bachynski’s absence was communicated to Queen City Pride.
