Why everyone should participate in Pride Month this year

Jun 13 2016, 8:19 pm

In two years we’ve gone from a mayor who wouldn’t participate in Pride Week to the first Prime Minister who’ll walk in the Pride Parade.

But we’ve also had less than two days to deal with the worst mass shooting in the United States and deadliest terrorist attack in the country since 9/11. 

Toronto Pride is, and always has been, a symbol.

It is an emblem all Canadians can wear with, well, pride. It is a tangible opportunity for supporters of the LGBT community to gather together to celebrate, to dance, to laugh, and – most importantly – to love without hesitation or harassment.

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You do not have to be a lesbian. You do not have to be gay or bisexual or transsexual, transgendered, queer or questioning. And that’s the beauty of it. You don’t have to be anything.

Pride is about inclusion not exclusion. Trust us, whoever you are, you’re invited. And you should come.

There will be more vigils for the victims in Orlando. There will be more tears and confusion. But there will also be more love than hate.

Because if we are to successfully combat the senselessness of hate crimes we must do it with the outpouring of love. We must focus on what unites us rather than divides us. This cannot be about hate; it has to be about humanity.

This is why everyone should participate in this year’s Pride no matter their background, sexual orientation, religion, or citizenship.

Do not be afraid. We will all be there with you.

Eric WainwrightEric Wainwright

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