Hey, Greater Sudbury, it’s time to get your Pride on!
This weekend marks the culmination of the week-long Fierté Sudbury Pride. See below for the happenings that will cap off the 18th edition of an event that both raises awareness of issues related to the LGBT community and celebrates the contributions LGTB people make in the community.
In raising the Pride Flag over Tom Davies Square earlier this week, Mayor Brian Bigger Bigger congratulated organizers for their contributions.
“We celebrate the LGBT community and vow to continue to work to build a city that we all can feel proud about,” he said. “Now in its 18th year, this event has evolved into an important piece of the community’s cultural and social fabric.”
Katherine Smith, who co-ordinated Pride Week activities alongside Kelly Perras, said although the gay rights movement has certainly come along way, it’s still important to host Pride events.
“We have come along way … (but) there is still discrimination and there’s still bullying, and as long as those things are still true, we have to keep doing this and keep educating people," she said.
What’s on this weekend?
Pride Prom
When: July 24, 7:30-11:30 p.m.
Where: Sudbury Theatre Centre (170 Shaughnessy St.)
Details: Pride Prom is a fabulous prom style party for Sudbury’s LGBTTQQI2SSA youth and their friends. Food, entertainment, dancing and prizes for Pride King, Pride Queen and Pride Ace (as defined by you).
Pride Day in the Park and Pride March
When: July 25, noon to 5 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park (corner of Minto and Brady Streets)
Details: Bring your rainbows, your unicorns, your glitter and your whole family. Join Fierté Sudbury Pride and some of Sudbury’s finest local talent at Memorial Park for a day of fun, live music, live drag and a big celebration! Bring out the kids to enjoy the new children’s area! Face painting, games, rainbow crafts and more! Help FSP ramp up for the biggest Pride March in Sudbury history. At 5 p.m., the group will march in solidarity through downtown Sudbury during the Pride Parade.
Spirit of Pride
When: July 26, 10:30 a.m.
Where: Sudbury Theatre Centre (170 Shaughnessy Street)
Details: Led by Rev. Gerry Coleman. All are welcome to attend this non-denominational, spiritual gathering, an opportunity to share and reflect.
