There are times when a community should take a moment and metaphorically pat itself on the back.
This is one of those times for our town.
This week, Yorkton is celebrating Pride Week, and that is illustrative of a community willing to put some old perceptions to bed and build a more inclusive and open society.
We are now in the midst of what was initially proclaimed by Yorkton Council in early April.
Margo Allaire, who appeared before Council making the request for the week to be recognized locally, touched on the importance being an inclusive community.
“Studies have shown a community that is inclusive and respects those that are gender and sexually diverse have reduced incidence of self-harm, suicide ideation and attempts,” she said, adding, “Both in the gender diverse population as well as in the heterosexual and cisgender population …
“By being open and visible, it is our hope that we can shed some light in the darkness and create a more welcoming inclusive community.”
Council was unanimous in proclaiming Pride Week, and that is something they should be proud of, because it may not have been unanimous even in our recent past.
Mayor Bob Maloney touched on that idea Saturday when he attended the opening of the first GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) mini summit at the Yorkton Regional High School.
Maloney, who was first elected to Yorkton Council in 2003, noted that it was unlikely a unanimous, positive consensus would have always been possible in years past with previous Councils.
The Good Spirit School Division also approved the GSA.
Again, Maloney touched on a relative who went through the school in the years past and found it very difficult based on his sexual orientation.
Today, the same school is looking to build the structures of support for students through a day of celebrating that is all right to be different, which is something worthy of celebration.
Pride Week will come to a close in the city with a Pride March through downtown on Saturday.
But what is more interesting is Back Forty Brewery hosting a Pride After Party. Again, it is so encouraging that businesses are supportive of creating a more open and inclusive Yorkton.
On Sunday, St. Andrew’s United Church will host a "Spirit of Diversity" church service, again opening the doors to better understanding.
The collective effect of the events of Pride Week comes down to greater awareness and understanding, which builds toward an accepting Yorkton worthy of the pride of us all.
