June is Pride Month.
Ashern is hosting their Pride event on Friday at the Ashern Legion from 1:30 to 5:30. The City of Winnipeg hosted their Pride event earlier this month, and hundreds attended. Now, it's time for the Village of Winnipegosis to take over.
Their Pride event begins at 11 a.m. on the Boulevard in that community on Sunday.
Cyndie Blythe says this is their fourth year, and excitement is off the charts.
"And we find that extremely gratifying. To be able to say we've been able to hold a Pride event for four years in the little backwoods puddle of Winnipegosis," said Blythe. "We're really reaching people. We feel that there is a lot of excitement locally."
There is a ton planned between 11 and 4. Then at 4, the Pride Parade hits the streets of Winnipegosis.
"Every hour or so, we will have a family-friendly drag performance. We are bringing three wonderful drag performers from Winnipeg, which is very exciting," continued Blythe. "We will also be having the drag performers read children's stories. We'll have food stands, yard games, tattoos, finger painting, and face painting."
There will also be inspirational speeches and a variety of vendors. Now 62, Blythe, who identifies as a Lesbian, was well into her 40s before she was able to embrace her sexuality.
"That is something I wouldn't wish on anyone," added Blythe. "To have to live 40 years in denial and self-loathing. In hiding."
Last year's event was an overwhelming success.
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Sunday, starting at 11, is all about inclusiveness in the Village of Winnipegosis, and you're invited to join in on the parade. Blythe says it's critical to celebrate the diversity and inclusiveness in her community.
"We are providing an opportunity for people to learn about the 2SLGBTQ+ community," ended Blythe. "Most importantly, there are people who are questioning and hiding. This is a safe place. This is where you can be out and proud."
That's the Winnipegosis Pride event, starting at 11 on Sunday on the Boulevard.
