Pride Guide for Newcomers
June is Pride Month—a time to celebrate the 2SLGBTQI+ community and honour the movement for 2SLGBTQI+ rights.
2SLGBTQI+ stands for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Intersex. The plus sign represents people with diverse gender and/or sexual identities who use additional terminology. Click here to view a glossary of 2SLGBTQI+ terminology from the Government of Canada.
The History of Pride Month
Pride Month emerged from protests for gay liberation in the United States in June of 1969. On the anniversary of these protests, Pride marches took place in many major US cities. From there, Pride marches and celebrations spread across the US and the world.
In Canada, the first demonstrations took place in Ottawa and Vancouver in 1971. In the following years, Pride events were held in several major Canadian cities including Montréal, Ottawa, Saskatoon, Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg. Today, Pride Toronto is one of the biggest Pride events in North America.
Pride London Festival
Did you know that London, Ontario has its own seven-day Pride festival? This year it will take place from July 13-23, 2023. There will be events throughout the week, a celebration with vendor booths in Victoria Park from July 21-23, and a culminating Pride Parade on July 23rd. The CCLC is participating in the parade, so keep an eye out for us! Please contact us if you’d like to walk in the parade with the CCLC. You can learn more about Pride London Festival here.
What the CCLC is Doing to Serve the 2SLGBTQI+ Newcomer Community
The London Cross Cultural Learner Centre is passionate about helping all newcomers. We offer specific services, support, and social opportunities for 2SLGBTQI+ newcomers. Additionally, all of our staff receive training on how to make our centre a safe and positive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Contact Joseph Jilitovich at rainbow@lcclc.org or 519-432-1133 x 412 for more information.
Happy Pride!