Squamish will get a little more colourful on Monday morning, Sept. 9 at 9:30 a.m.
That is exactly when a pride flag will be raised over municipal hall in advance of Squamish’s first community-wide celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and two-spirited individuals and their allies, which is set to take place on Sunday, Sept. 15.
“We embrace all members of our community, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, and we are proud to raise the Pride flag in their honour,” said Mayor Karen Elliott in a District news release. “It’s heartbreaking to know that there are people among us who feel isolated or unsafe, and we are here to say you are valued and you are welcome. I also want to extend my thanks to all of the volunteers who have worked so hard to make this week-long event a reality and an opportunity for all of us to learn and participate.”
Pride Squamish, a collective of local volunteers, is organizing Squamish’s first Pride Festival.
“We are honoured that the District of Squamish has chosen to stand with us by raising the rainbow flag over municipal hall,” said Pride Squamish president Tabitha McIntyre, in the release. “It is our hope that we, as a community, will continue to create safe and supportive spaces for all, and that everyone will come together and join us in celebrating LGBTQ2S+ individuals and their contributions.”
Pride Squamish celebrations will be held at Junction Park on Sept. 15 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. All ages are welcome. For more information go to pridesquamish.com.
