The local library is opening its doors — quite literally — to the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Bradford West Gwillimbury.
As a kick-off to Pride Month, the BWG Public Library held a Paint 2 Acquaint event, welcoming people to take part in a variety of activities, including painting a message of inclusion on doors to be displayed at the library throughout June.
“Part of having these doors on display is to let people know that culture is not just about ethnicity, and we need to be more aware of how we are including others and broadening how we make people feel welcome,” said Larissa Marks, community engagement co-ordinator at the library.
Part of the library’s mandate, she added, is to share art from other communities and cultures.
The library hosted the event June 7 in collaboration with the AIDS Committee of York Region and The Gilbert Centre in Barrie to offer support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community of all ages in BWG.
Marco Hernandez-Henriquez, of the AIDS Committee of York Region, explained the door theme was to embody opening doors for the community to come together and participate in the movement that events like Paint 2 Acquaint promote.
“All ages need a safe space to come, be themselves, gain friendships and have support systems,” added Marks.
With the ongoing growth in BWG, hosting events like these shows that “Bradford West Gwillimbury is an accepting community where people can find support and other like-minded people,” said Mayor Rob Keffer.
“These events are important opportunities to break down barriers, open conversations, and celebrate the diversity found in Bradford West Gwillimbury.”
