Upper Gullies Elementary students deck out the welcome benches

By Mark Squibb / June 9, 2023

A number of Grade 6 students have endeavored to make Upper Gullies Elementary a welcoming place for folks of any sexual orientation.

Over the last week, students spent some time each afternoon painting five Buddy Benches and one picnic table in bright, rainbow colours for Pride Month.

“A lot of people may be lesbian or gay, and it may be tough to come out, because people might make fun of you for it, but if all schools did something like this, it will help people to not be scared,” allowed student Chris Gulliver.

The paint and brushes for the project were donated by the Town of Conception Bay South, overseen by Nick Miller, Director of Recreation and Leisure Services, and students were grateful for the donations.

“The Town wanted people to be feel safe and comfortable when they come here,” said Layla McCarthy.

The students are hopeful that members of the community enjoy the benches just as much as students do.

“We wanted to make a safe space for everyone, and to make sure everyone feels welcome,” said Darla Melnychuk.

Teacher Colleen Powers has been overseeing the project.

“I think it’s important to model that love will always win,” said Power.  “Acceptance is so important. And even as they grow to be grow older, they can reflect on this and know that they were a part of something special, and that they were a change agent in the world, even if it was just in their own school. They will carry this with them forever and know that one small swipe of a brush and a bit of paint can make a huge impact.”

Unfortunately, just after it was painted, someone scratched something inappropriate on the picnic table, but students were quick to volunteer to paint over the graffiti.

“We had a little bit of vandalism, but we said we’ll just paint over it,” said Power. “Our message is much stronger than any graffiti.”