By Angie Sullivan
June is Pride Month, and Georgina celebrated our LGBTQ+2 community with an inclusive day of activities and a parade.
The fifth annual Pride Day event took place on June 8 at Sutton Fairgrounds.
Leah Sheridan, one of the original founders said, “It was a wonderful family friendly event that showed how much love exists in our community. We had some amazing local talent come out and the people were so kind to all of our talent and to the entire community. Events like this are key to acceptance. The more love we show and the more education we can provide gives people access to what they need and gives them a feeling of belonging.”
Approximately 150 people were in attendance filling the fairgrounds with music and laughter.
Amanda Hislop, President of the Georgina Pride Optimist Club said, “We get out in the community and we’re visible. Those that aren’t able to participate can see it and set up and enjoy.”
The Fifth Annual Pride Ride featured brightly decorated cars, York Regional Police cruisers, and York Region First Responders.
The parade began at 9 a.m. along Hawkins Road and travelled the lakeshore and through Sutton.
Attendees also enjoyed a barbeque, community vendors, local talent performances, and the Haus of Deveraux Drag Show Performance.
The York Pride Police Association donated $750, and the officers helped out with the barbeque.
Grant Peckford, Vice-President of the Georgina Pride Optimist Club said, “I’m a 68-year-old gay man. So I’m a gay elder and I’m the keeper of the stories as elders are.”
He reflects on the importance of his organization. “I’ve been in York region for many, many years, there isn’t anyone who doesn’t know me. It really is about being a voice for those who are in the process of finding theirs.”
The organization is in transition as they prepare for growth and recently changed their name from Georgina Pride Club to Georgina Pride Optimist Club.
To find out more, visit the Georgina Pride Optimist Club Facebook page.
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