WEYBURN – The City of Weyburn officially proclaimed June 15-21 as Pride Week with this year’s theme, “Beyond the Rainbow: Education, Celebration, and Inclusion.”
The proclamation, issued by Mayor Jeff Richards on June 11, highlights the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQIA2+ individuals, both globally and locally. Hate crimes, harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity remain pervasive, often going unpunished in many parts of the world, said Richards.
“Even in Weyburn, fear of violence or prejudice forces some to conceal their true selves,” he said.
Pride events are about human rights, the proclamation states. They empower LGBTQIA2+ individuals to celebrate their existence and perseverance in public spaces where they have historically been excluded. Visibility, the mayor emphasized, is crucial in challenging marginalization and fostering acceptance.
Canada is home to more than one million who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning/ intersex, asexual, or Two-Spirt. Pride Week serves as a reminder of the progress made, and the work still needed, to ensure equality and safety for all, said Richards.
Events throughout the week will offer opportunities for learning, connection, and advocacy, ensuring that the message of Pride extends beyond the rainbow.
For more details on Pride Week activities, visit the City of Weyburn’s official website of local LGBTQIA2+ organizations.
