Join the Celebration: Minden, Ontario's Pride Week 2024
Minden Pride is a volunteer-driven, non-profit Haliburton County organization operating as a part of the Haliburton County Community Cooperative and comprised of local business owners and residents. Our mandate is to provide an opportunity for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people and their allies to celebrate our culture, heritage and diversity by nurturing a safe community for LGBTQ2+ people of all ages. An annual week-long festival in August celebrates the diversity of Haliburton County's community, and helps promote the organization's message of dignity, respect and inclusivity.
Our community came together in 2016 after the tragic nightclub shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando and a senseless act of vandalism in Haliburton Village when a storefront was defaced with homophobic graffiti. These events spurred the community at large (including high school students from the Gay/Straight Alliance) to show tolerance and acceptance, and to take a stand against intimidation by celebrating our presence in the community through a festival of visible, inclusive events. At the suggestion of then Haliburton County Warden, Carol Moffatt, Founders Sinclair Russell and Bob Baynton-Smith went to Minden Hills Council for support in creating Minden Pride.
The first two years featured a flag raising and a community picnic held in the large front yard of the Wild Swan B&B on the Gull River. The picnic included a bbq, children’s games, and live entertainment featuring local talent. Minden Pride has expanded to a week-long celebration with increased attendance and number of events, and continues to be the premiere community Pride event in Haliburton County.
These events show the community at large that we are a very strong, proud and diverse community that continues to make our mark in Haliburton County.
As we come together to celebrate Pride Week in Minden, Ontario, it's essential to remember that our support for the LGBTQ+ community doesn't end with the festivities. One of the ways to keep the spirit of Pride alive throughout the year is by sharing novelty gifts that celebrate love, inclusivity, and diversity. Whether you're looking for a thoughtful present for a friend or a unique way to show your own pride, these Pride-themed gifts are perfect for spreading joy and making a positive impact.
Here are some fantastic unique gift options to consider
Erase Hate Socks
Proud Closet Heat Changing Mug
Pour in a hot beverage to reveal your pride!
Pronouns Socks
Drag Queen Coloring Book
Scrabble Pride Socks
Loud & Proud Coloring Book
via mindenpride