Shelburne Pride Rally set for return  amidst rising anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Members of Shelburne's LGBTQ+ community are looking to share their support of each other in the wake of rising anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric with an upcoming Pride Rally.

“This is a pure celebration of the queer community, as we strive to combat the hate that we've been facing,” said rally organizer Ethan Praxis. “The whole purpose of the rally is to show support for the queer community, in particular the transgender and non-binary community who have been disproportionately impacted.”  

The Shelburne Pride Rally was first held in September of 2022 as a positive alternative to protests in the Town, which were sharing anti-LGBTQ+ views. The 2022 Shelburne Pride Rally was originally planned to be a one-time-only rally, but Praxis said he chose to bring the event back again in response to the growing anti-LGBTQ+ conversations. 

Speaking with  the Free Press, Praxis touched on the importance of hosting events, such as the Shelburne Pride Rally, that support the local LGBTQ+ community. 

“It's absolutely vital that we have events like this, if not you're just emboldening those who are spreading hate and lies and those who are infesting the community with bigotry, even if they may be the minority,” said Praxis. “If no one says anything, especially those in authority, it's highly detrimental.” 

The 2023 Shelburne Pride Rally will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jack Downing Park. 

Individuals who are a part of the local LGBTQ+ community and those who are allies to the community are encouraged to attend the event. 

“I'm hoping this will show the queer community in Shelburne and the more rural parts of Dufferin that they're safe here and to inspire them to have their own events. What we want form our allies is to just show up because we need you there to speak and stand with us,” said Praxis.