For those of us who have spent significant time in a small town within Alberta, it’s not surprising to have felt like even more of a minority when it comes to sexual preference. Homosexually speaking, my three years in Pincher Creek (and this was pre-Wal-Mart) could easily be called the 1980’s of my existence thus far. Some fun things happened and sweatpants were an acceptable clothing option but for the most part, it’s a black hole that I would rather fill with fake memories of being cosseted by Angelina Jolie. In her Tomb Raider outfit, of course.
Small communities can be beautiful, comfortable, and peaceful but can also be a double-edged sword. First, everyone knows everyone. Second, everyone knows everyone. You can easily go on your weekly visit to the Saan store and catch up on the latest gossip before you find a new pair of powder blue stirrup pants. Which, by the way, are conveniently located next to the sweat pants. This seemingly innocuous communication between your small town counterparts can be considered charming in some circumstances. In others, the effects can be less charming and border on terrifying. Being ostracized or worse is a fear we can all relate with, regardless of population.
Fortunately, the winds of change have been blowing hard and show no signs of letting up. Courageous people are standing up not only for legal rights but for the right to celebrate our diversity and uniqueness. Voices are being heard. Hearts and minds are slowly opening.
One of the fruits of these labours is found in the fact that Lethbridge is hosting a Pride Festival for the very first time. Heather Chomos, Chair of the Lethbridge Pride Committee, says that up until 2009, there’s never been an official event that was publicly advertised.
“Years ago, it was a single event, by invitation only, due to its sensitive nature. Now that attitudes are different, that’s certainly not the case anymore. Times are changing and more people value equality over ignorance,” says Heather.
The significance of this inaugural festival isn’t lost on those who live outside of the city borders.
“There’s a lot of interest from all over Alberta. There are people from central and northern Alberta commenting not only on their willingness to participate but also their support. Those who cannot attend are incredibly supportive of Lethbridge going full out with a Pride event.”
This year’s 3-day event opens with a Kick Off Celebration on Friday, June 12th that invites everyone to come out and participate. The weekend’s festivities vary from casual to high energy, and the Pride Committee has put lots of effort into creating events of all levels. Heather and her team are keenly aware of the difficulties some people face and the obstacles that may prevent them from celebrating openly.
“We do have a few events that are less public, not completely out in the middle of the city. This allows those who might not be comfortable for any reason, to feel more secure and safe. We’re also having all events open to the public, so just because someone is attending, it does not mean that they’re a member of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Trans-Identified, Two-Spirited, Queer Community. Though, certainly, we do invite every member of the GLBTTQ community to come out and celebrate,” shares Heather.
The foundational ideas of the Festival are clearly ones that value inclusion.
“Our vision was to include each segment of the GLBTTQ community, which is just as diverse as our country. We wanted to have an event that each member felt welcome at, and enjoyed attending. Our mandate is to educate not only Lethbridge, but also Southern Alberta, about its GLBTTQ friends and family members and why it’s truly important for everyone to be proud.”
As a former small town resident, the existence and fortitude of Lethbridge Pride brings a sense of hope and possibility that I couldn’t have imagined nine years ago. Hopefully, the social norms of the past will become as obsolete as my off-white sweatpants with elastic around the ankles. Wherever you call home, I encourage you to join the citizens of Lethbridge as they take pride in who they are and invite everyone to share in that joy.
The premiere Lethbridge Pride Fest runs from June 12th-14th. Highlights include Queeraoke, a free BBQ, Sunday Pride worship service, pancake brunch and more. For more information on event times and locations, check out the Lethbridge Pride Fest Facebook page or visit their website.
