Summer after summer we watch many cities gather to celebrate LGBTQ communities around the world.
This year there is a pride festival coming to Kitchener-Waterloo, also known as the tri-cities.
Alex Chunaco, the coordinator of this weeklong festival, expressed how meaningful this event is for our communities.
“Since 1995, pride festivals have had traditions of being held in the area,” said Chunaco. Tri-Pride, however, seems to be one of the most elaborate and engaging, yet.
“[Differing from other pride festivals] which are more grassroots and community focused, ours has a more regional focus.”
Chunaco continued to elaborate on the desire to highlight the history of the LGBTQ folk in our community and to bring them together to share their common stories.
The festival spans almost two weeks from May 24- June 5. There are many events that Laurier students can attend and celebrate.
Chunaco highlighted a few key events that he is most looking forward to and those that the public could get the most out of.
On May 28, there will be a flag raising ceremony at the Cambridge City Hall. This event will make a bold statement and will feature speeches from community leaders.
On June 5, there will be a picnic in the park. This alcohol-free event will be taking place at Roos Island, Victoria Park in Kitchener. Finally, there will be a Pride March following the picnic that begins at Roos Island.
As of late, there seems to have been an increase in the prominence of LGBTQ inclusivity, with many events being held throughout the year. Also, with The Order, a LGBT bar located in uptown Waterloo, just around the corner, Waterloo is slowly becoming a corner stone in the the LGBT social scene. There is, however, always room for improvement.
“It is getting [better], but it is only as strong as the community leaders that step up,” said Chunaco. With a growing population, predominately younger generations, the tri-cities are appropriately evolving, bringing in a new wave of inclusivity.
Tri-Pride plays a key role in allowing the LGBTQ folk to increase visibility, celebrate their triumphs and further their sense of community.
In addition to celebrating the diverse communities, Laurier students also get the opportunity to explore the world outside the university bubble.
So, between binge watching Netflix or cramming for those spring midterms, why not get outside and celebrate Tri-Pride?