May 17 2024 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. In recognition of this, Sault Pride will host a Rally for Rainbow Equality at the Ronald A Irwin Civic Centre at 11:30 am as the culmination of a National Rainbow Week of Action running from May 11-17th. Rallies for this purpose will take place across the country throughout the day.
This short rally is a call to action for elected officials and governments at every level to address rising hate and act for rainbow equality. Of particular concern to event organizers are initiatives in some parts of the country to erode the rights to privacy and self-determination of queer and trans youth, as well as an ongoing lack of needed gender-affirming care for all.
“We are speaking up for the kind of Canada all our families deserve: a Canada where we respect diversity, protect human rights and lift each other up,” notes Amanda Zuke, Sault Pride chair; “that’s why we – as 2SLGBTQIA+ people, allies, families and friends – are rallying for rainbow equality. We know diversity is an indicator of systemic health, and an inclusive Canada is good for everyone.”
As part of the National Rainbow Week of Action, Sault Pride also encourages individuals to visit www.rainbowequality.ca and send a letter to your MP and the Prime Minister, encouraging them to continue fighting for the free, equal, and socially just future all Canadians deserve.
I recall that Amanda Zuke was the subject of a Sootoday article on July 13, 2023: “Sault Pride committee member facing charges of assault, uttering threats”. I don’t know how that turned out.