Timmins Pride celebrates the 2SLGTBQ+ community with a rally and parade

Pride Week in Timmins is coming to an end with the 9th annual rally and parade and people are happy to celebrate in person.

Pride events began in Canada fifty-one years ago.

“You get to know new people and hang out with people that you didn’t know that are part of the LGBTQ+ community," Elise Burchard of Timmins told CTV News.

Speakers and singers took to the stage to remind everyone to be proud of who they are and to keep on shining.

“A lot of people in the LGBTQ community suffer greatly from people being ignorant of what pride means and this is just a great way for the community to get together so we can support each other and know that we’re not alone in the struggles we may face," Phoenix Vieno, who identifies as a trans individual, said.

Organizers said Pride Week in Timmins usually coincides with Pride Month in June.

“Just because it has that feeling of acceptance, everywhere kinda feels more like a safe space so a lot of people feel more–they’re braver to come out," Matthieu Villeneuve, president of Fierté Timmins Pride, said.

He thinks the change has had an impact on the turnout this year as it's lower than in past years. Participants who did attend this event said attitudes towards the local pride community are improving.

“I think what’s important is we have organizations like the YMCA, the youth wellness hub," said Cameron Grant of Timmins.

"We have sports organizations that are understanding what it means to be part of the pride community and it’s a very different place from when I came out in 2007 but I can tell you it has gotten better and just reach out when you need support.”

Others hope to keep the conversation about 2SLGTBQ+ going.

“Being aware of pronouns and bringing that forward and talking about it. I think it’s really important to take that information and incorporate it in our every day," said Michelle Mailloux, an 2SLGTBQ + ally.

A drag show caps off Pride Week and organizers said they are already looking forward to next year when they'll be celebrating their 10th anniversary.

For more information on Fierté Timmins Pride, visit www.timminspride.com.