With the theme LOVE. OUT. LOUD., Pride Week returns to Peterborough for a 21st year, with a number of events planned for September 15th to 24th.
In 2003, then Peterborough mayor Sylvia Sutherland proclaimed the city’s first Gay Pride Day after being approached by community members. Since then, the Pride Parade, which will be held September 23rd, has been an annual fixture on the calendar.
Rick Lambert, the chair of the Rainbow Service Organization and a member of the Pride Week organizing committee, says LOVE. OUT. LOUD. is “a rallying cry” that comes at a time when the LGBTQ+ community is experiencing increased harassment and discrimination.
Lambert adds that while Pride Week is, at its heart, a celebration, it serves a broader purpose.
Reflecting on the first proclaimed Pride gathering held in 2003, Lambert credits a small group of Trent and Fleming students for their courage at the time.
For a full listing of the many Pride Week events scheduled, visit www.peterboroughpride.ca/events/.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
