Drifting leisurely down the Grand River in canoes and kayaks was a new way to celebrate Pride Month.
Participants in the Paddle for Pride event on Saturday registered at Chiefswood Park on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, then were taken to the launch point in Onondaga.
“We are huge paddlers, and we do the Two Row (on the Grand) ever year,” said Chiara Williamson of Toronto. “When we saw Paddle for Pride, we decided to come.
“We’re dating,” she said, gesturing to her partner Emma Mutsaers. “So this is our Pride Month, and Sylken (Smith, age 10 of Six Nations) always comes and paddles with us.”
Williamson said they enjoy paddling trips every summer, including the ten-day Two Row on the Grand event from Cambridge to Port Maitland that is scheduled for later in July.
“Events like these give chances for youth to connect with their community and to see that love is love, and every type of identity is okay,” Williamson said. “Hopefully it will allow them to be who they are. who they always were and have pride in themselves.”
Jess Hill, one of the Paddle for Pride organizers said participants would be treated to entertainment including a DJ and local musicians, face painting, vendors, food, crafts and the screening of films at the park into Saturday evening.
“It’s a day to celebrate and uplift our community, and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth can see they are loved and can move forward in a good way,” said Hill.
Pride in the Park drew a large crowd to Mohawk Park in Brantford on Saturday afternoon.
Event co-chair Ken Giesen said the turnout, the weather and the energy of the crowd was very good.
“A lot of people commented they were so glad we could do this, and so glad we got this going again after two years,” he said.
A DJ provided music as people strolled past a vendor market, and community information booths.
“My favorite part is seeing the young people come out, dressed in the rainbow and feeling comfortable: their authentic selves,” Giesen said. “And creating that safe place for them to do that.”
Renu Dhaliwal represented the Sexual Assault Center of Brant at one of the information booths.
“It gives everyone a sense of community, and I think because of COVID it’s really important to see people and what they are doing,” she said. “To feel the good energy, love and support, that’s why an event like this is important.”
Abrianna Money of Brantford said she was attending a Pride event for the first time.
“I’ve always wanted to go but haven’t been able to because I haven’t been in Brantford or where ever they’re holding them,” said the former Simcoe resident. “I love inclusiveness. It feels safe.”
“It’s nice to be able to express yourself, be open and comfortable in the community,” said Erica Nichol of Brantford. “It’s a good place to meet people who are like-minded,” gesturing to newly made friends.
“And now we’re best friends,” said Madison Wintemute of Simcoe. “This is my first Pride and I’m still exploring who I am,” she explained. “Something like this is amazing to me.”