The Airdrie Pride Society is gearing up for another Pride Festival where people can celebrate who they are, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
“Our vision is to create a society where gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation are fully accepted and individuals can find their community in their community,” says Rhianne Fiolka, who was recently voted in as president of the society. “We celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion of gender expression, gender identity and sexual orientation within Airdrie and the surrounding areas.”
The third annual Pride Festival will take place at Nose Creek Park June 17 and will include a solidarity walk, food from local vendors, as well as live performances throughout the day, she says.
Mitchell Plunkett, volunteer co-ordinator for the society, encourages people to attend the event and join a community where they can be comfortable being who they are.
“Being yourself is what makes you human. It’s what sets you apart from everybody else,” says Plunkett.
The 17-year-old attended a monthly social gathering hosted by Airdrie Pride after moving to Airdrie in 2017 and immediately fell in love with the community.
“I just came out as trans at that point so I went to PRYSM and I loved it. I met a lot of great people there,” he says.
The not-for-profit organization provides community support, education and programming year-round for the queer community and allies in Airdrie and the surrounding area, according to Fiolka.
Monthly events include PRYSM (Pride Youth Social Movement), Parenting with Pride, Community Coffee and Board Gay-mers. The society is also planning its second annual Queer Prom for youth in Grades 9 to 12 this June. Fiolka says the society’s main goals are empowering youth and advocating for positive change.
“Whenever there is negativity towards the queer community, we’re always flooded with an outpouring of support as well,” she says. “Airdrie Pride is always trying to be visible and here in Airdrie so that those in the community know that there is always a supportive space for them.”
For more information about the festival or monthly events, visit airdriepride.ca.
