June is Pride month and the Cowichan Pride Society hosted its second annual Cowichan Pride and Walk Festival on June 23. Several community members attended the walk, which began at Duncan's Vancouver Island University parking lot and ended at City Square. Festivities ran until 5 p.m.
Downtown businesses on Kenneth and Station streets did up their store fronts with rainbow flags and other decor, and community members boasted bright colours with pride to celebrate the day. Hundreds turned up to City Square, which was a hub of activity for the festivities with food trucks, an array of booths and tables set up with many local businesses and organizations showing their support. For those who may need support or who know someone who does there was one booth that had information about Canada's 24/7 Suicide Crisis Helpline where people who feel they need someone to talk to can text or call 9-8-8.
Pride month was born from the Stonewall riots, which were a series of gay liberation riots that began on June 28, 1969 and lasted for several days. June is recognized as Pride Month, which has become an inclusive and vibrant celebration to honour the LGBTQ+ community, their history, their achievements, and their ongoing struggle for equality. Pride Day will be celebrated across the country on June 28.