July 7-14 is Red Deer's Pride Week!
To celebrate, we are co-hosting a few events with the Red Deer Queer Community Association., opens a new window
Our schedule of events is as follows:
- July 9 - Rainbow Storytime, opens a new window
- July 10 - 2SLGBTQ+ Pride Town Hall, opens a new window
- July 11 - Queer Prom, opens a new window
We understand that you may have some questions about these events, so we have included a brief FAQ section below. If you have any comments or questions related to any of the Pride Week programs, please use the form below.
Q: Who should attend the Pride Town Hall?
A: Everyone should attend! This program will provide an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about SOGI education, transgender healthcare, and other 2SLGBTQ+ related topics. There is a lot of misinformation about 2SLGBTQ+ issues, and we hope that attendees will take this opportunity to listen and learn from those in the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Q: What is Rainbow Storytime?
A: Rainbow Storytime, or Drag Queen Storytime, is exactly like any other storytime, except that we have a special guest reader (who is a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community), dressed in a fabulous sparkly outfit, sharing their love of reading, and choosing stories about love, acceptance, and diversity.
Q: Is Rainbow Storytime appropriate for all ages?
A: Absolutely! As with all of our storytimes, the stories, crafts, costumes, and discussion are all carefully chosen with the age of our audience in mind.
Q: What are the benefits and reasons behind hosting such an event?
A: To name a few:
- It introduces children and families to a positive role model from the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It is very important when sharing stories and themes from marginalized groups, that we do our best to center their voices and invite their participation.
- It provides a great platform to discuss the importance of individuality, acceptance, empathy, and inclusion.
- It encourages participants to look beyond appearances and accept others as they are.
- It showcases the incredible value and importance of books and reading.
- Hosting such an event shows our community that we value ALL of our patrons. It is a concrete demonstration of our commitment to create a safe and welcoming space for all.
Occasionally, concerns about abuse or exploitation are incorrectly attributed to the above types of events. If you would like to find factual information to help recognize and combat child abuse and exploitation, please check out the resources from the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, opens a new window.
Happy Pride Week!
Pride Week Events - Questions and Comments
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