Troubling yet inspiring stories were shared, tears shed, hugs exchanged and hearts ultimately lifted.
That was the scene at Milton Town Hall Friday morning (May 31), as inclusion and acceptance washed over the crowd of 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and allies gathered for the seventh annual flag raising to kick off Pride Month.
Applause burst forth from the crowd of more than 100, including dozens of teens, as Mayor Gord Krantz made the official proclamation.
“This is incredible. To see you all here, it takes my breath away,” said Melanie Tremills, founder of 2SLGBTQIA+ group PRISM Halton. “This (flag raising) gets bigger and bigger every year. Visibility is key. We want you to know that we’re here, we’re proud and you have a community in town for you.”
Among those sharing personal stories was Andrew Clarida, who spoke of struggles with isolation and intolerance before ultimately finding hope.
“It’s amazing to have a voice after being quiet much of my life,” said the Milton District High School student, who touched on the need for meaningful conversations and reflection regarding this year’s Pride Month theme of Intersectionality and Inclusivity.
Joined by Krantz, councillor Kristina Tesser Derksen and MPP Zee Hamid representative Karen Barring, MP Adam van Koeverden told the crowd that his office is filled with 2SLGBTQIA+ allies committed to “taking steps forward, not backward.”
On hand to support her students, MDHS educational assistant Maggie Zuccato – who helps run the school’s GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) – said events like this help youth feel part of the greater community.
“It’s a chance to celebrate who they are. It’s a happy event, and that’s not always the case for these kids.”
Echoed Pflag volunteer Leanne Rancourt, “To see this many people come out in love, acceptance and joy… it’s wonderful.”
Milton will once again play host to the Pride Halton pride parade, with the second annual event set for July 14 along downtown Main Street.