Hate has been loud, and Renfrew Pride says they need to be louder.
The 2nd Annual Renfrew Pride Picnic was a success this past Saturday, June 10th, as founder Chris Kyte says the group saw a great turnout at Low Square as residents gathered for food, games, and entertainment, as well as the raising of the Progressive Pride flag outside Town Hall.
The day also saw the first ever Pride Walk in Renfrew, as Kyte says a small group led by Renfrew Pride co-founder Kayla Pilon was joined by Renfrew-born Skylar Braeden Fox to lead a “small but colourful crowd” that they “look forward to growing” in the coming years.
Kyte admits that recent backlash and an uptick in hate towards the local LGBTQ2S+ community, especially for transgendered people and drag queens, caused them to promote the event quietly.
She calls the day an opportunity to raise awareness, advocate, and educate regarding the on-going threats they continue to face each day, adding that Pride is both a celebration and a protest.
In the meantime, Renfrew Pride is thanking residents for showing up in support of the local LGBTQ2S+ community, Pflag Renfrew County for their support, and the many local sponsors and volunteers that made the day possible.
They’re also getting ready for their next event, a Queer Pride Prom at the Ma-te-Way Activity Centre on June 24th. Tickets are available for $20 each or $35 for a pair by email, as Kyte reminds those interested that it will be an age-of-majority event that is intended for LGBTQ2S+ people only.
(written by Kasey Egan)
