June is Pride Month, and there have been many events in the Parkland this month.
Winnipegosis, Swan River, and Dauphin are three communities that hosted events to celebrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Just down the road on Friday, Ashern will host its pride event from 11:00 to 3:00.
Megan Harrison was a vendor at last year's event and said it went very well. This year, organizers are sprucing things up and hoping for an even larger turnout.
There will be music, vendors, yard games, and face painting.
"It's such an important opportunity to bring people together to celebrate diversity and build community," said Harrison. "We know there are 2SLGBTQ+ members in our community. They live here, work here, raise families, and contribute. We want everyone to feel like they have a place here."
There will also be sidewalk chalk art, information, and resources. There will be walk through pride history. That's where you can explore stories, moments, and milestones that have shaped the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
There's also a Subway sandwich sale. It's a fundraiser in support of the Lakeshore Family Resource Centre.
If you're in the Ashern area on Friday, Megan says stop by, say hi, and enjoy a great afternoon of inclusivity and community.
"Yeah, it's for everybody. One of the sayings we're using is everyone belongs," ended Harrison. "It means exactly that. No matter the age, background, culture, identity, or orientation, everyone can come. Everybody belongs and deserves to be safe, respected, and valued in the Northwest Interlake."
All are welcome and everyone belongs.
