High winds blew in a successful Pride

Members of Stratford-Perth Pride celebrating a beautiful day.

Whipping winds did not dampen the high moods of those at Upper Queen’s Park this past Sunday.

Volunteers and Pride workers gathered together on June 1 at 9 a.m. to prepare for this year’s annual Stratford Pride parade. Tasks were quickly given out and everyone was sent to work, putting together what was going to become Stratford-Perth Pride’s most successful Pride festival to date. The goal of this year’s festival was clear; as a community, we are strong.   

This year, the march began at the Tom Patterson theatre, with important words from the vice chairperson, Melissa Marcelissen

“Pride is not just a march. It started as a riot. We walk today in honour of those who came before us, those who risked everything, so we could live more freely,” Marcelissen said. “We walk for those who can’t be here today, and we walk for every queer kid in rural Ontario who needs to know that you’re not alone; you are seen, you are loved, and you belong. I want to speak directly to the queer folks here with us, if this year feels different, if it feels harder, heavier, scarier, you’re not imagining it, and your feelings are valid. To every member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who showed up here today, whether you’re out loud, out quietly, or not out yet, I want you to hear this. I’m so proud of you. We are all so proud of you.”

Marcelissen stressed just how important events like the Pride festival are, especially now in out currently climate, to stand together and stand tall, to show that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community will not be ignored.

Marcelissen then introduced Mayor Ritsma to say a few words. “Some students were in council chamber, and one young lady said to me ‘What’s the most important job of being a mayor?’ And I said the three words that I always come to. One, the importance of safety. Be sure there’s safety for all your residents. Number two, having a voice, and this is part of the voice here today. And number three, is a feeling of belonging,” Ritsma explained, talking about how vital safety, voice and belonging are to creating a community that is trusting and supportive.

Marcelissen returned onto the mic to give some final words before starting the march. “Stratford-Perth Pride has been able to make this event bigger and more impactful because of you, and because of our incredible sponsors and supporters. After we march, we invite you to join us at Upper Queen’s Park for the Stratford Pride Festival. Thank you for being here, thank you for marching, and let’s go take up some space! Happy Pride everybody!”

With the welcoming speeches concluded, the eighth annual Pride march commenced. The excited crowd began walking along the river towards Upper Queen’s Park, flags held high, and Pride on everyone’s faces.  

This year's festival had the highest turnout rate to date, with nearly 1,000 attendees celebrating Pride. A turnout as large as this helps ensure that Pride visibility in Stratford is growing ever stronger.

The march concluded at the top of Upper Queen’s Park, leading the marchers through the vendors, welcoming them into the festival. Participants got to enjoy a wide array of activities and attractions at this year’s festival. From a wonderful live performance from Gravity Junky, captivating performances from Cirquesmith, On Stage Dance Studio, as well as yoga in the park with the third space. A kids zone was set up with fun games and face painting for all ages to enjoy, and ally alley concluded the space, with plenty of resources, and information for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies alike. Food trucks were available at the festival for participants to grab something to eat, whether it was fish and chips from Annie’s, gourmet grilled cheese from Fo’cheezy, fries from Ken’s or some popcorn from Poppin Kettle Corn. 

None of the festival would be possible were it not for the sponsors of the Stratford Pride Festival; Home & Company, Paws on Patrol, Huron-Perth Children’s Aid Society, Audio Guy, RE/MAX, On Stage dance studio, Good Vibrations Rock shop and Scotiabank – as well as the event sponsors, TD Bank and the City of Stratford. The Stratford-Perth Pride team also wanted to express their deepest thanks and gratitude towards the community of Stratford-Perth; if it weren’t for the participants, this festival couldn’t get as successful as it is.    

If you would like to learn more about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, or have any questions in regard to Pride, Stratford-Perth Pride can be reached on their website at stratfordpride.com, or on Instagram and Facebook under the name stratfordperthpride.

Editor’s note: Sydney Goodwin is the program coordinator with the Stratford-Perth Pride.