Peterborough Pride Week takes place this year from September 18th – 27th
This is the 18th year of Pride in Peterborough but this year is like no other.
The theme of the 2020 Pride Week is “Pride in Other Spaces” in recognition of the complex realities of this year. There will be no parade or large gatherings this year so the challenge is to connect as a community and LGBTQ+ individuals in spite of the fact that we can't gather as we normally would during Pride Week.
Plans are in the works for various community run virtual events and small gatherings that folks can participate in safely. Pride Week events provide space for participants to gather, share ideas, speak their minds, support each other, and have fun in a safe and accepting environment.
We are inviting everyone to "Show Their Pride in other Spaces" by flying Pride related flags or decorating their homes and businesses to signal that they are part of a welcoming community where nobody needs to feel isolated or unsafe.
Locally, regionally, nationally, and globally, there are plenty of issues that impact LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. Here, safety, access to services, Transgender rights, homelessness, and reducing oppression of marginalized folks need our attention. Globally, the lack of rights and revoking of hard-won rights remind us that we can’t be complacent. Everyone should be able to live and love as they wish with dignity and without fear. Freedom from discrimination of any sort should be a basic human right that all humans can enjoy.
The annual Pride Week celebration is the product of considerable time and devotion from many volunteers and support from the City, community organizations, local businesses, and the broader community. That work and support is greatly appreciated.
“Peterborough Pride” exists to support & celebrate people of all sexual orientations and gender identities; honour and give thanks to those who have come before us and contribute to the resilient spirit and courage of the present struggle for our human rights. We promote a justice seeking future through education and advocacy so that all may participate fully in the life and work of the City of Peterborough and surrounding area with safety, dignity & respect!
For more about Peterborough Pride and a detailed event listing visit www.peterboroughpride.ca. We are also on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Our Upcoming Events section is brought to you by Patrick McAuley of Bowes & Cocks LTD Brokerage.
