With the theme ‘Joy and Resistance’, Peterborough’s Pride Parade returns to George Street September 24th after a two-year COVID pandemic-related absence.
Rick Lambert, a longtime member of the Peterborough-Nogo Pride Committee who’s active with the Rainbow Service Organization, says this is the 20th parade held since former mayor Sylvia Sutherland proclaimed the first Gay Pride Day in 2003 at the urging of a group comprised of Fleming College and Trent University students. Lambert notes there has been quite a progression since.
Lambert adds the theme of this year’s parade and related events is more than just words on a page.
Despite the progress seen over the years, Lambert says there remains much work in the fight to end discrimination and violence against the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. He says members of that community, and their supporters, must continue to fight the good fight.
On September 16th, a flag raising proclaiming Pride Week will be held at City Hall. The parade itself will start at 2 p.m., also at City Hall, and make its way to Millennium Park. For a listing of Pride Week events or to volunteer, visit www.peterboroughpride.ca.
