By: Tessa Ferrone
Windsor-Essex Pride Festival
During the month of June, we celebrate the impact and importance of LGBTQ+ individuals in the world. Festivals, parades, and concerts are held throughout the month, specifically on June 28. During June, we, as a society, reflect on our past actions and continue to learn how to be better allies. We have come a long way, but what exactly has Windsor done to celebrate Pride Month over the years?
In 1992, the Windsor Pride Community was founded by Jamie Pitts and held its first festival on July 12, 1992. The festival was titled “Lesbian and Gay Pride Day,” and the theme of the event was “Get used to it!” This day was held at a local bar called J.B’s Restaurant and Bar. It would include indoor and outdoor activities such as entertainment, dancing, food, and the Miss Pride Day Pageant. This event inspired the One in Ten Youth Group to form, whose goal was to provide a safe space for LGB youth. This was the first public Pride celebration in Windsor.
Over many years, Pride continued to be celebrated in July until around 2000. Many other organizations for the LGBT community were formed to provide comfort, education, and acceptance for all people. Whether you were struggling with your sexuality or were very open about it, these groups were safe spaces for people to be themselves. In 2006, the Windsor Pride Community was registered as an official non-profit organization, which was a giant step forward because it gave recognition to the organization and showed an immense amount of support to individuals of the LGBTQ+ community.
This year’s Pride Fest will be the 30th anniversary of Pride in Windsor. It will be held on August 7th at Lanspeary Park on Ottawa Street. This family-friendly event is a great experience for all individuals, whether they are a part of the LGBTQ+ community or simply want to be a better ally. Another way you could become a better ally is by supporting the GSA club by buying a Pride Bracelet in the Atrium at lunch. All proceeds will be donated to a local charity in honour of Pride month at St. Joe’s. Express yourself and be an Ally this pride month, Lasers!