Kenora Pride organizer aims to empower LGBT youth
Kenora's first pride weekend will include a picnic, a march, art projects and storytelling
Organizer Wynne DeGagne said the event is an opportunity for Kenora to rally around the LGBT community – especially the young people.
"I started an LGTB support group in February and ... a lot of the people that attend are youth," said DeGagne.
"Just listening to their stories and how they feel about growing up in the community ... it made me feel like it's time that Kenora ... showed its support so that all the young people growing up feel accepted and included in the community."
DeGagne said young LGBT people deserve to feel comfortable simply being themselves.
DeGagne said the pride celebration, which is sponsored by the Northwestern Health Unit, is already getting a lot of support from the community of Kenora.
Submissions sought for storytelling evening
One of the highlights of the event will be a storytelling evening on Saturday, June 27, said DeGagne.
Submissions are being sought from anyone who wishes to share a personal story or poem about their experience living as LGBT or as a supporter of that community in northwestern Ontario.
More information about the events, and submitting stories, can be found on the Kenora Pride 2015 Facebook page.