Zoetermeer raises the rainbow flag to show that everyone belongs
On Friday, Councilwoman Véronique Frinking (Health and Well-being, Inclusivity, and Diversity) raised the rainbow flag at Stadhuisplein. The flag-raising took place on Purple Friday (October 9) and in the lead-up to Coming Out Day (October 11)—days dedicated to raising awareness about acceptance, equality, and respect. With this gesture, the city is showing that everyone in Zoetermeer should be able to be themselves and feel like they belong.
By raising the rainbow flag, the municipality expresses its support for residents for whom being themselves is not always a given. Zoetermeer is a rainbow city—a city where differences are valued and where everyone can feel welcome, safe, and seen.
"By showing understanding and respect for people who are different from ourselves, we can make Zoetermeer a pleasant and safe city for everyone. Everyone deserves to be able to be themselves and feel like they belong," says Councilwoman Véronique Frinking.
Although everyone in the Netherlands has equal rights, many people still face barriers to being themselves openly. By flying the rainbow flag, the municipality is calling for respect, understanding, and a society in which everyone counts.
Strong interest in rainbow flags
Last week, residents could pick up a rainbow flag for free at City Hall. There was a great deal of interest. Many residents took advantage of this opportunity and showed their support by flying the rainbow flag from October 9 through 11. Together, we’re showing that Zoetermeer is a city where everyone is welcome and where there’s room for who you are.
Together, we show that respect, acceptance, and connection are not things we can take for granted, but values we choose to uphold every single day.
