PRISM, Halton’s 2SLGBTQIA+ group, is riding high after a fantastic series of events this summer, celebrating Pride in the region.
“We had a fantastic Pride Parade in Milton this July, our second annual, “explained PRISM’s chair, Melanie Tremills. “We had over 400 participants and 37 groups in the parade. We also had our first annual vendor and community market in conjunction with it, with 20 vendors and community groups participating in that. Everything went really well, despite the rain that started just as the parade began, unfortunately.”
Despite the rain on the parade, there were hundreds of supporters from the community cheering the marchers on, from inside local businesses and restaurants, and peering out from umbrellas and other shelters.
“We had fantastic support from many organizations, including the local teacher’s unions,’ said Tremills. “It really meant a lot to the youth to see that support.”
PRISM was founded by Tremills eight years ago, mainly as a social group, with a special focus on youth and families. Tremills works in the school system, and felt there was a need for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and their families to be represented more, out in the community.
“PRISM organizes social events and activities throughout the region, throughout the year, for youth, families, and adults,” she explained.
“We do bowling, teen hangouts, and movie nights for teens in Milton and Georgetown. We also organize axe throwing, craft nights, social nights out and hiking for adults. We hosted a queer family picnic in the spring and will likely host another one in the fall. We like to do Pride 365, and make sure we are out in the community and having social events all year round, for the people we support.”
Tremills continued, “We participate in all the Pride events in our region, of course, and it culminates with the Pride Parade in Milton. It was wonderful to once again have the support of our local MPs. We have had sponsors again this year that were incredible enough to sponsor the first ever Pride parade in Halton, last year. Their continual support to the parade and 2SLGBTQIA+ community is what makes the parade so successful. It is just a great chance to be loud and proud in our community.”
PRISM volunteers are just getting ready to coordinate and organize some events for this fall, so look for updates on the website here and join the Facebook group here to stay informed.
“We welcome everyone and anyone in our community to become involved and join in our social activities, all year round,” said Tremills. “We serve the entire Halton community, so don’t be shy, come out, and we will see you soon!”