West Island Pride, a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ2+ community, is back in Pointe-Claire for its third year. Despite its growing popularity, organizers are facing challenges due to decreasing corporate support for Pride events.
The event, held at Edgewater Park, is a free, day-long festivity that brings together local organizations, vendors, and performers, offering activities suitable for families to enjoy.
David Hawkins, the executive director of the West Island LGBTQ2+ Centre, emphasized the importance of the event in the community, stating, “We do still exist. We deserve to be acknowledged and have our voice heard.”
This year, organizers struggled to secure sponsorships, facing more rejections than approvals from past supporters. Hawkins noted the increased difficulty in obtaining financial backing and mentioned operating at a deficit.
Through performances, activities, and a land acknowledgment by Mohawk knowledge sharer Kahsennenhawe Sky Deer, the event aimed to foster inclusivity and acceptance for all attendees.
Nora Beettam-Johnson shared her positive experience of finding a supportive community in the West Island through the LGBTQ2+ Centre, highlighting the importance of such spaces for families and parents of queer individuals.
The event also catered to younger participants with drag queen Bambi Dextrous leading a story time session promoting themes of acceptance, family, and self-expression.
West Island Pride carries a rich history, with Theo Wouters, an attendee since its inception in 2024, recounting his involvement in anti-homophobia activism in Pointe-Claire dating back to 2001.
As the event continues to evolve, the spirit of unity and progress remains at its core, echoing the sentiments of Wouters, who emphasized the universal right to happiness and acceptance for all individuals.
