Pride Month is a time to celebrate diversity, reflect on our progress, and support our 2SLGBTQIA+ community, whether as an ally or as a member of the community itself. It is famously said that “Pride started as a riot” and while that is true, the goal of Pride is for it to no longer be needed to serve a political purpose. That this month can stand as a celebration, rather than a reflection of how far we have to go. Great progress has been made since Pride as we know it began at the Stonewall Inn, but unfortunately we still live in a world where we need to champion those around us and protect what we have gained.
One of the things I appreciate most about living in Minden is the strong sense of community. People here look out for one another, volunteer their time, and come together when support is needed. Pride Month is a reminder that this spirit of inclusion should extend to everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Minden was the first township in Haliburton County to fly the Pride flag and to recognize the then-named organization Minden Pride (today it has rebranded to the more inclusive name Pride in the Highlands). Minden has always believed in community, and their support of the Pride community is no exception.
Pride Month in the Haliburton Highlands is quiet. While major Pride celebrations take place in June in larger centres like Toronto or Ottawa, in Haliburton County, the main festivities happen during Pride in the Highland’s Pride Week in August. During this time communities fly the rainbow flag, host events such as Drag Storytime, Trivia Night, a Meet and Greet, as well as the annual River Float Parade and Streetfest. However, Pride is not like Santa, visiting once a year – it exists year round in the Highlands through the sense of community and togetherness it promotes.
Celebrating Pride is not only about parades and festivals. It’s about recognizing that every person deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued in their community. In a town like Minden, that can mean having open conversations, supporting local initiatives that promote inclusion, or simply showing kindness and acceptance in our daily interactions. It can mean promoting tolerance and respect, or raising the voices of marginalized communities.
What makes Pride especially meaningful in smaller communities is the opportunity to visibly support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Whether it’s flying a rainbow flag, attending a local event, or sharing educational resources, these gestures can help foster a sense of shared community for everyone. For someone who may feel isolated or uncertain about being themselves, knowing they are accepted can make a real difference.
No matter where we live, whether in a bustling city or a small town nestled in the Highlands, we all have a role to play in building communities where people can live authentically and without fear. That is a goal worth celebrating this Pride Month and every month of the year.