Huron County Pride expands visibility and inclusion across rural communities

As Pride Month approaches, Huron County Pride is preparing for another vibrant season of events aimed at celebrating visibility, inclusion, and connection throughout rural Ontario.

Chairperson Alex Jebson for Huron County Pride said Pride in a smaller community carries a unique significance compared to larger urban centres.

“People traditionally associate Pride with cities like Toronto,” Jebson explained.

“But LGBTQIA+ people live and work in these communities too, and they love these communities. One of the foundational ideas of Huron County Pride is making sure people feel seen and included right here at home.”

Over the past several years, Jebson says visibility and acceptance within Huron County have continued to evolve. Support from businesses, to churches, organizations, and residents has helped Pride programming expand beyond a single festival into year-round community engagement.

“We’ve been really pleased with the support we’ve received,” he said.

“In some ways, we’re even doing more programming than some larger Pride organizations because there’s such a strong desire for connection and inclusion here.”

Jebson, who also serves as minister of Bylth and Brussel United Church, highlighted the growing role faith communities are playing in supporting LGBTQIA+ residents.

During Pride Week, the church will celebrate becoming officially affirming congregations following a process of education, reflection, and community engagement.

“We often say everyone is welcome, especially in rural communities known for hospitality,” Jebson said.

“But true inclusion takes intentional action — using the correct pronouns, listening to lived experiences, and creating spaces where people genuinely feel accepted.”

He added that conversations around inclusion are becoming more common throughout Huron County, though there is still work to be done.

A recent survey conducted by the United Way and University of Guelph researchers found some LGBTQIA+ residents still do not feel fully comfortable or accepted within their communities.

“Huron County Pride helps bring those conversations forward,” Jebson said.

“Whether municipalities decide to fly the Pride flag or not, the discussions themselves are important because they acknowledge that queer people are part of these communities.”

This year’s Pride programming includes a wide range of events designed to engage different age groups and interests.

Activities such as tie-dye workshops, crafting, music events, and protest poster-making nights encourage creativity, education, and community building.

“The arts have always played a role in queer expression and activism,” Jebson said.

“These events allow people to express themselves, collaborate, and have fun in supportive spaces.”

Jebson also emphasized the importance of expanding Pride celebrations beyond larger hubs like Goderich and into smaller communities across the county.

“We made a very intentional effort this year to host events throughout Huron County,” he said.

“We want people living in places like Brussels, Exeter, Bayfield, and beyond to feel seen and valued in their own neighbourhoods.”

For Jebson, community Pride is ultimately about building relationships and encouraging continued growth and understanding throughout rural Ontario.

“The most exciting part has been seeing the conversations that have started,” he said.

“Not just about queer acceptance, but about what more we can learn, how we can collaborate, and how we continue making all of our communities more welcoming for everyone.”

Huron County Pride Week runs from June 2 to June 7, with events taking place across the county:

Tuesday, June 2

Pride Poster-Making & Craft Night

At 6–8 p.m. at Seaforth Library, Seaforth

Free admission

Wednesday, June 3

Movie Afternoon: Parade: Queer Acts of Love and Resistance

At 2 p.m. at the Huron County Museum in Goderich

Free admission (first-come, first-served)

Thursday, June 4

Tie-Dye & Acid Wash Evening

At 5–8 p.m. at MacNaughton Park Pavilion, Exeter

Free admission

Friday, June 5

Pride Trivia Night

At 7 p.m. at the Bad Apple Brewing, Zurich

Admission by donation

Saturday, June 6

Fourth Annual Huron County Pride Festival

At 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Lions Harbour Park, Goderich

Live music, drag performances, artisan market, family activities

Free admission

Sunday, June 7

Pride Worship Services

At 9:30 a.m. - Brussels United Church, Brussels

At 11 a.m.- Blyth United Church, Blyth

Sunday, June 7

Bayfield Pride Walk

At 11 a.m. at Clan Gregor Square, Bayfield

Free admission

Organizers encouraging residents of all backgrounds to participate in the celebrations and educational opportunities being offered across the county.