The Government of Canada is committed to better serving 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and to building a society where everyone is free to lead authentic and happy lives. The Ministry of Canadian Heritage, through the “Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage” program, has invested $91,500 toward the North Bay Pride Committee. This will assist with the operation costs for this year’s festival which takes place from September 14th through September 17th.
During an event on Wednesday morning at the Laurentian Ski Hill, The Honourable Anthony Rota, Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming revealed the details of the investment and says, “I am proud to see support for the local North Bay Pride festival for 2022. From coast to coast to coast, Canadians gather at Pride events throughout the summer to celebrate and share the values of strength and solidarity. These celebrations are a time to remind us of the resiliency, spirit, and presence of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and communities across Canada and right here in Nipissing-Timiskaming.”
Communications Director for North Bay Pride Jason Maclennan says “With recent online hate towards OutLoud and Pride organizations in Canada, it reinforces the need for pride to continue the fight for equity by having events, parades and educational opportunities. However, this is not possible without the support of grants such as the Canadian Heritage Grants and work that this government has done in regard to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Not only is this funding important for Pride, but it also helps us drive economic recovery that is vital to all communities across Canada as we try to recover from COVID.”
Part of the funding will assist with a concert taking place at Laurentian Ski Hill featuring Bif Naked, Ria Mae and local recording artist Mackenzie Drive. As well, there will be a Drag Show Persona Contest on Thursday, Sept 15th, a Trans March and cruise on the Chief Commanda on Friday, Sept 16th as well as the Pride Parade on Saturday, Sept 17th.
North Bay Mayor Al McDonald was at the event and says, “The North Bay Pride Festival always involves a number of great events and I’m looking forward to seeing our community once again come together in-person to celebrate diversity, inclusion and acceptance.”
President of the North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce Peter Chirico was also in attendance, and he says, “The North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see this investment in the North Bay Pride Committee Festival taking place September 14-17th. Our community is inclusive, and this festival will allow all to take part in the celebrations that recognize the 2SLGBTQ+ individuals that make up our diverse culture in North Bay & District. Thank you to the organizing committee and especially to our MP, Speaker of the House, Anthony Rota for today’s funding announcement and commitment.”
President of the Board of Directors for the Ski Hill, John Strang says, “Laurentian Ski Hill is ecstatic to partner with the North Bay Pride Committee to host the upcoming outdoor concert. The tourism industry has been working diligently over the years in developing and promoting 2SLGBTQ+ experiences and we are happy to be part of this exciting initiative happening locally within our community.”
Rota says, “Investments in commemorative cultural infrastructure, anniversaries and local arts and heritage bring communities together, making them better places to live. These festivals bring people together to celebrate our local arts and culture and heritage and it is important to continue to support the 2SLGBTQ+ community here in Nipissing-Timiskaming.”
