Nogojiwanong/Peterborough Pride Week takes place this year from September 17th – 26th. This is the 19th year of Pride in Peterborough. The theme of the 2021 Pride Week is “Change Starts Here”.
The gay or queer rights movement was born out of a need for fundamental change to end the oppression, discrimination, and violence against 2SLGBTQ+* individuals. Over the last 50 or so years we have seen laws change to end the oppression and to provide equal rights. That said, violence and discrimination against People of Colour and Black, Indigenous, and Queer individuals has continued. We all have to actively make the changes to the culture that perpetuates these injustices. We invite everyone to embrace the theme of Pride Week, take action and make it your own. For more on our choice of theme see below.
Out of an abundance of caution, there will be no parade/march or large gatherings during Pride Week again this year. The challenge will be to connect as a community and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in spite of the fact that we can’t yet gather as we normally would during Pride Week.
Plans are in the works for various community run virtual events and gatherings that folks can participate in safely. Pride Week events will continue to provide space for participants to gather, share ideas, speak their minds, support each other, and have fun in a safe and accepting environment.
We also invite everyone to show their Pride and express their feelings by decorating their homes and businesses to signal that they are part of a welcoming community where nobody needs to feel alone or unsafe.
Everyone should be able to live and love as they wish with dignity and without fear. Freedom from oppression and discrimination of any sort should be a basic human right that all humans can enjoy. The annual Pride Week celebration is the product of considerable time and dedication from many volunteers and support from the City, community organizations, local businesses, and the broader community. That work and support is greatly appreciated.
Ad Choices