Pride is more than just a celebration. It’s about being seen, feeling safe, and knowing you belong. For the 2SLGBTQ+ community, it’s a time to honour the trailblazers who fought for progress, stand alongside those still seeking justice and acceptance, and remind everyone that true support isn’t just for June, but for every day of the year.
That message was front and centre in Portage la Prairie yesterday as the city raised the Pride flag at City Hall, proudly showing support for love, inclusion, and diversity. Mayor Sharilyn Knox spoke at the event, reminding the crowd what the flag truly represents.
“This flag is more than a symbol, it's a message,” Mayor Knox notes. “It reminds us of the ongoing work we must do to build a community that truly welcomes and embraces all people, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or expression. When we lift this flag today, we are lifting the voices of the 2SLGBTQ+ community members, their families, their histories, and their futures."
With Pride events taking place throughout the region, the city’s message was clear: supporting the 2SLGBTQ+ community is about long-term action.
She stressed that meaningful inclusion is everyone’s responsibility.
"Portage la Prairie is a diverse and growing city, and with that comes a responsibility to ensure that residents feel a genuine sense of belonging. When we lift this flag today, we are lifting the voices of the 2SLGBTQ + community members, their families, their histories, and their futures. To those who are part of this community, we see you, we support you, and we are committed to creating a city where you can thrive."
Just down the road, Long Plain First Nation is also marking Pride in a big way. The fourth annual Pride Walk is happening this morning, and organizers say this year’s celebration is the most exciting one yet.
Naomi Fosseneuve, who has been on the Pride Committee since the beginning, remembers how quickly it initially came together.
“It just started with me and Cory Brook. The first year, we had an idea and made it happen in just six days. It was incredible,” Fosseneuve says. “This is our fourth year. We're super proud because this time we have a lot more sponsors and with that, a lot more activities planned, and it's going to be awesome!"
The day kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with registration at the Petro Canada on the reserve. The walk will begin shortly after 10 a.m., led by Parade Marshall Jonnie Walker, and finish at the Long Plain Rez Plex.
Cory Brook, with the Pride Committee, says the event is open to everyone, whether you're from the community or just visiting.
“We want to invite everybody out. It's not only a community event, but also for the surrounding areas. Dress up, decorate your vehicles, and be proud of who you are," Brook notes.
Khadijah Meeches, now in her third year as a committee volunteer, says the event is a full celebration of identity, love, and unity. There’ll be plenty of food, fun, and photo ops throughout the day.
“We're going to have a photographer with a photo op station, door prizes, and a huge BBQ,” Meeches says. “There are free T-shirts and swag bags for the first 100 people."
With cash prizes for the best-decorated floats and most creative outfits, participants are encouraged to show up in their brightest, boldest Pride looks.
“Be loud, be proud, and come support our relatives. This is an opportunity to show that we're not afraid of love. We are here to celebrate it,” Fosseneuve says.
As Portage la Prairie and Long Plain First Nation celebrate side by side, both events serve as a powerful reminder: Pride is about showing up, speaking out, and making space for every person, every identity, every day of the year.
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