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With hopes of rallying residents in a show of support for the 2SLGBTQI+ community and making a difference for the Home Rainbow Youth Centre, the third edition of “Pop Up Pride” is returning to light up Memorial Park in Brighton will all the colours of the rainbow.
Pop Up Pride is set to make its return on Saturday, June 21 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Pop Up Pride founder, sponsor and lead organizer Amy McQuaid tells us more about how the event got its start and its significance in the community.
“This year, we’re hoping to raise around $2,000 for the centre, and (those funds) will go specifically to programming,” says McQuaid, adding the hope is to expand youth programming at the Prince Edward Street centre later this fall.
McQuaid tells us more about the centre, expansion plans and why this youth space is so crucial in the community.
In addition to ensuring local youth and allies have a safe, inclusive and welcoming space locally, online the centre states its mission is to empower and uplift the community through educational leadership, skills development, events, recreation and programming. It also stands to help reduce stigma.
McQuaid tells us several volunteers have come together to make this year’s Pop Up Pride a reality. What’s more, she says multiple businesses, service clubs, community partners and others have stepped up with donations, sponsorships, and the like to show their support.
“We have a lot of great offerings this year and people are going to be pleasantly surprised when they come to Memorial Park (and) see all the activities that we have this year.”
McQuaid tells us more about the lineup for the day.
There’s also going to be a “dunk bucket station” where folks can “dunk” local councillors.
Several of the activities are free – the paid activities support the centre.
McQuaid says everyone is welcome and hopes the community will answer the call.
“It’s just going to be a really fun day, and we really hope that people come this year …”
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
