Proclamations and Flag Raisings

The Town of Shelburne issues proclamations and offers flag raisings to recognize your special day or event. 

Organizations can request a formal proclamation or flag raising by completing the Proclamation & Flag Request Form. Read the Proclamation and Flag Raising Policy

Proclamations and flag raising requests are to be submitted at least four (4) weeks prior to the date for which the proclamation and/or flag raising is requested.

Coordination, promotion, and implementation of any associated proclamation or flag raising is the responsibility of the organization or individual(s) who submitted the request.

Requests do not have exclusive rights to day, week or month being proclaimed or having a flag raised.

Guidelines for Proclamation Requests:

Proclamations are ceremonial statements issued by Shelburne Town Council that officially recognizes the importance of an event, a campaign or an organization of significance that are of interest or benefit to the residents of Shelburne for a particular day, week or month. A proclamation does not establish a personal or civic endorsement.

• Requests are to be made at least four (4) weeks in advance of the requested issuance date.
• Requests may only be made by an organization that resides, operates or provides services within the Town of Shelburne or within the County of Dufferin.
• Will be issued only in respect of activities that support residents of the Town of Shelburne or related events taking place in Town.
• Must provide background information about the organization, cause or event being proclaimed.
• Must demonstrate respect and tolerance for all residents.
• Must foster a sense of community.
• Support public awareness campaigns or honour special achievements of institutions, or organizations.

Proclamations will not be issued for the following:

• Political parties or political organizations. (Political organizations are defined as affiliate organizations or professional advocates to political parties. Examples can include advocacy groups, special interest groups or groups aimed at achieving clearly defined political goals, which typically benefit the interests of their members).
• Promotion of religious beliefs or religious events. (Cultural celebrations and heritage months will only be recognized on the Town’s website and social media).
• National Independence Days or Republic Days.
• Shall not be used as a vehicle to attempt to influence government policy.
• Promotion of business or commercial enterprises, or a campaign to generate profit.
• If the intent is contrary to corporate policies or bylaws, or to defame the integrity of the Town of Shelburne.
• If the event or organization has no direct interest or relationship to the Town.

Guidelines for Flag Raising Requests:

If you have an important event or campaign that you would like to commemorate with a flag raising, Council will consider requests that meet the following criteria:

• Requests are to be made at least four (4) weeks in advance of the requested issuance date.
• Flags that celebrate a non-profit or charitable organizations public awareness events or campaigns that align with the Human Rights Code.
• May be accompanied by an approved proclamation and must be requested at the same time of the proclamation.
• Have a connection with the Town of Shelburne.
• Are non-commercial and non-partisan in nature.
• Align with the Town's bylaws and policies.
• Fosters a sense of community or have made a significant impact within the community.
• Demonstrate respect and acceptance for Shelburne residents.

Requests shall not be approved for the following:

• Political parties, organizations or candidates for election.
• Religious organizations or the celebration of religious events.
• Any purpose where the intent is contrary to Town policies or bylaws.
• Any purpose where the intent is to defame the integrity of the Town.
• An event or organization that has no direct relationship or will not benefit the Town.
• Espouses hatred, violence, racism, or offensive messages.