June has officially been proclaimed Pride Month in Estevan, following a declaration made at Monday night’s city council meeting.
In his statement, Mayor Tony Sernick acknowledged the challenges that LGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face, including threats to their rights, freedoms and safety. He said Pride Month is about human rights and empowering people to celebrate their existence and perseverance in public spaces where they are often excluded, whether directly or indirectly.
Following the proclamation, Councillor Matthew Dubowski spoke about the origins of Pride, referencing the 1969 Stonewall riots and the first Pride parade in 1970. He emphasized that Pride is not just a celebration, but a continued fight for equality and safety.
Dubowski also addressed the ongoing discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, including in Estevan, and called for compassion, inclusion and respect.
“There are people that are so scared to even be themselves, and there are others that will never bend the knee to this hatred,” he said. “Regardless of how you have identified, who you love, or if or when you feel comfortable to be yourself or come out, you are part of this community. And you are loved as anyone else is.
“So let me be crystal clear about this. LGBTQIA+ queer people are not your enemy. They are not punching bags. They are human. They are parents, siblings, people's children, friends, neighbours, they are family. And they are welcome. They deserve to be treated free of discrimination, hatred and bigotry.”