The Moose Jaw Pride executive director had every reason to be happy. Dozens upon dozens of vehicles decorated in rainbow colours, featuring flags and placards and everything else in between, were gathered in the Town ‘N’ Country Mall parking lot, ready to show their support for the local organization and its patrons.
“It means a lot, and it especially means a lot to 2SLGTBQ families,” Carlson said during a momentary break from passing on plans to the nearly 50 vehicles that took part. “There are allies and supporters putting their hands up and saying ‘you belong in Moose Jaw’. I love it and I’m thankful for it.”
The event wound its way throughout the city, trekking through South Hill, back into the northwest side of the city, up into Sunningdale and back down Main Street before calling it a day.
The Saskatchewan Dragoons even took part, decorating one of their G-Wagons and a Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle in Pride colours and joining the convoy.
It was all a fitting end to the last full day of activities for Pride Week in Moose Jaw, one that had been wildly successful even if it was once again largely forced into the virtual arena.
“It’s been a really great week, and given the circumstances of the last year and a half for everyone,” Carlson said. “It’s been special and meaningful and prideful to 2SLGTBQ families in Moose Jaw, especially to celebrate themselves, be visible and share their stories. And being out in public like this today is great to see, there are a lot of people out here today.”
Events through the week included a host of unique ventures, ranging from online discussions about 2SLGTBQ history in Moose Jaw to a special Trivia Night and even a one-off Dungeons and Dragons session. Participation was solid throughout the week, and that included the penultimate events on Saturday night -- both the children’s and adult drive-in drag shows were completely sold-out well before the first performers hit the stage.
“So it’s a been a great week, and we’re really happy with all the support we’ve had from the community,” Carlson said.
Pride Week officially wraps with a reaffirming faith service from St. Andrews United Church on Sunday morning that will be streamed online.
For more information on Moose Jaw Pride and to reach out, visit their website at www.moosejawpride.ca, and follow their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MooseJawPride/ or shoot them a text or phone call at 1 (306) 692-2388.
