Riding Mountain excited to host pride weekend
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 14/09/2018 (2562 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP) will be hosting its second annual Pride celebration this weekend.
“These amazing areas of beauty, wonder and nature are accessible for everybody to come and enjoy, and members of the LGBT2QS+ community are valued employees and they are valued visitors, and there’s a place for them here,” acting visitor experience manager at RMNP Cal Martin said. “We want to boldly show our support for them.”
Festivities will run from Friday through Sunday. Martin said that the weekend is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Pride and explore the beautiful trails at RMNP.
Pride kicks off on Friday with a free movie night at the Visitors Centre at 8 p.m. The documentary film “MAJOR!” about the life of Miss Major Griffin Gracy, a black transgender elder and activist, will be featured. Free snacks will be provided by Parks Canada and SERC Brandon. The movie contains adult content and is not suitable for children,
The movie was selected by SERC Brandon because of the powerful content it showcases, Martin said.
On Saturday afternoon, guests can bust a move at the family street dance party from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Heritage Lane. The party will feature the music of DJ Mama Cutsworth and special guests. Visitors are encouraged to wear costumes from the Ragpickers costume station and celebrate Pride in style. The event will feature a “Pride Yourself” station, where guests can connect with local community organizations and find festive flags, temporary tattoos and stickers for the event.
Martin said that the family street dance party was one of his personal favourite events at last year’s festival.
“It was such a riot last year. It was free, there were people of all ages dancing in the street having a blast,” he said.
On Saturday night, Poor Michael’s Emporium will have Queer Bingo hosted by the Sunshine Bunch. Bingo will be followed by a Pride After Party at 10 p.m. at the Wigwam hosted by QTPOC.
Pride comes to an end on Sunday at the Lakehouse with “Read by Queens,” with the Sunshine Bunch drag performers hosting a kids story time at 1 p.m. at the Lakehouse.
Martin said he encourages everyone from the LGBTQ community, allies and park guests to visit one of the activities over the weekend and show support for Pride.
“We want a sense of community,” Martin said. “People are very approachable and everyone is just here to have a great time.”
Parks Canada is working with community organizations that include SERC Brandon, LGBTTQ Collective at Brandon University, Klinic Brandon, QTPOC Winnipeg, Like That at Sunshine House and local businesses to create a inclusive safe space and fun environment that showcases the diverse LGBT2SQ+ community and RMNP.
RMNP began hosting their Pride Celebration last year. The celebration serves as one way to recognize the diversity and inclusion present in Canada, Martin said.
“Overwhelmingly what we learned from it was focusing on an event that highlights inclusivity and diversity is a good directions to go in,” Martin said. “It’s about removing barriers and welcoming people of all stripes to come to a wonderful natural area to celebrate that diversity and create a warm and inviting environment.”
One of the biggest insights to come out of last year’s celebration was the need for increased accommodations at the park Martin, said, adding that he recommends taking advantage of one of the may available cabins, campgrounds or hotels in the area to make the most out of the weekend festivities.
Martin said he has two major tips for having a great Pride weekend at RMNP.
The first is to make sure one leaves time to get out and explore the park and ask park staff some of the must-see sights.
Secondly, Martin said it’s important to come with an open mind and talk to others in attendance.
“This is meant to be a safe and fun event and we want people to feel comfortable and we want a sense of community,” Martin said. “Everyone is here to have great time.”
» ckemp@brandonsun.com
» Twitter: @The_ChelseaKemp