Rainbows, Reflection and Ridiculousness

Our Rainbow "Flag"

Original by Aidan

The 2014 Winter Olympic's and the Russian government's stance on LGBTQ2S individual's has created actions and "reactions" in my country of Canada and most notably in my current city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.  This painting, done by my son Aidan was a project he undertook completely without coaxing or coaching.

A trip to Ottawa, our nation's capital back in 2012, included leisurely moments just strolling down the streets and discovering new shops to browse.  Many had a small rainbow sticker placed on front doors or windows and Aidan asked me why they were there.  I simply stated that the rainbows were there because the store owners welcomed EVERYONE into their establishment.  When we arrived home a few days later, he painted this picture and it has remained a permanent fixture on his wall.

The rainbow belongs to all.  It represents kindness and acceptance and non-judgement.  It is for all marginalized populations to show the support their community has for them.  I don't know if Aidan truly understands what it means to be gay, but he does realize what it means to be different from the norm we consider in our society.

I applaud Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa, St. John's and Vancouver for flying the rainbow flag at their City Halls and Provincial Legislative buildings, and all other cities in both Canada and the United States who have followed in example.  If one Autistic boy can reflect and understand the meaning of acceptance, I think we can show the same wisdom that he has shown to us with his rainbow.