Uncorked: Your Rainbow Connection
By Mike Butler
What a year it has been so far for the LGBTI Communities of the world. There have been many wonderful, positive, and uplifting moments throughout the world, including the recent historical march of our Prime Minister in Toronto’s Pride Parade. But there have also been moments of extreme sadness and heartbreak, with so many lost lives in Orlando and other locations not covered by the media. No matter the event, as a community, Wolfville has always shown its support of Pride Week, Pride events, and the LGBTI community, and I am proud to be both a resident of Wolfville and a loud and proud gay man.
Pride Week is upon us and there are some awesome events taking place this week that you all should support. As a member or supporter of the gay community, you’re all welcome to participate and show your pride in yourself, show your support of those you love, and come out and have fun!
Pride Week kicks off on Saturday July 16 at 11:45am with the Ribbon Cutting ceremony on the new Rainbow Steps of Town Hall, followed by a blitz in the Waterfront Park including the Pride Flag Raising Ceremony and games on the grass after that. You are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and dress in your best Pride gear! Also, from 1pm-3pm at Box of Delights Bookshop on Wolfville’s Main Street, you can enjoy the art and readings of LAMBDA award-winning comic artist Sfé R. Monster.
On Sunday July 16, join us for the 3rd Annual Bob Stead Memorial Potluck BBQ. In honour of Wolfville’s former Mayor, a community potluck supper is held each year to bring together food, family, friends, and fun — everything Bob loved about life. The potluck starts at 1pm with socializing and outdoor activities, and then eating starts at 3pm. This year, Danny Chandler and Robert Perry will be hosting the get-together at their cottage at 65 Balsam Drive, Butler Lake (just off Spruce Road on the Parkdale Road coming from Blockhouse OR past the 40s in New Ross). Everyone is welcome to attend. Car pool if you can, and please bring your swimming gear and a food item for the supper.
On Tuesday, July 19, at the Box of Delights Bookshop, join Kaleigh Truce, award-winning author of *Hot, Wet, and Shaking* as she hosts a Collective Queer Lit Open Mic in support of the Valley Youth Project Adopt-a-Library program. This is a must-attend event!
On Wednesday, July 20, from 4pm-7pm, the Wolfville Farmers’ Market becomes a Rainbow Clad Extravaganza of Queer fun and festivities complete with Pride Community Dinner, musical guests, rainbow-inspired vendor items, and information booths.
On Thursday, July 21 from 6pm-8pm and Saturday, July 23 from 10:30am-12pm, come to the Clark Commons at Acadia University for a self-defence and awareness workshop. Learn how to plan and practice effective self-defence responses for all ages, sizes, strengths, and fitness levels.
And finally, on Sunday July 24 at 10:30am, join the Pride Community in a Celebration of Spirit at the Manning Chapel, Acadia University. Feel free to prepare songs, thoughts, and reflections to share with the attendees. There will be refreshments and connection time to follow the service.
Keep an eye out for more events during Pride Week and be aware that all family, friends, kids, adults, pets, and stuffed animals are encouraged to participate and be a part of these special events. Show your Pride in your community and show Pride in yourself. We are so fortunate to live in such a supportive and beautiful place so let’s show Wolfville how much we appreciate it. See you there!
