The City of Sault Ste. Marie recognizes the importance of celebrating the community’s ethnic and cultural diversity. The international flags permanently displayed in front of the Civic Centre reflect the many vibrant communities that call Sault Ste. Marie home.
Criteria
The following criteria must be met for a flag to be displayed in recognition of a cultural community
Population Threshold
The cultural community must constitute at least 3% of Sault Ste. Marie’s total population, based on the most recent StatsCan census data or reliable demographic studies.
Sponsoring Organization
The application must be submitted by a registered non-profit organization or community association that:
- represents the cultural community;
- is in good standing; and
- has a demonstrable track record of community involvement and engagement.
Demonstrated Contribution to the City
- The application must include at least three (3) reference letters from credible sources (e.g., local leaders, institutions, public officials, educators, or business/community organizations).
- These letters must attest to the significant social, cultural, economic, or civic contributions made by the cultural community to Sault Ste. Marie.
Submitting a Request to Display a Flag
To apply, the following items must be sent to discoverthesault@cityssm.on.ca:
- A cover letter or e-mail that includes the following information:
- Lead Applicant/Contact Name
- Sponsoring organization
- Mailing Address
- E-mail Address
- Phone Number
- Name of country/nation
- Description of why you would like this country/nation’s flag displayed
- Proposed flag-raising ceremony plans (if a ceremony is desired)
- Documentation verifying the community’s population within the city
- Proof of non-profit or registered status of the sponsoring organization
- 3 reference letters as outlined in the above criteria
Review and Approval
- The City will review and assess applications based on the criteria above. Please allow up to 60 days for a final decision.
- The City reserves the right to approve or deny applications based on overall eligibility.
- Requests will not be approved for:
- Political parties or organizations;
- Intent that is contrary to City policies and bylaws; and
- Organizations or groups that espouse discrimination, hate, violence or racism.