The Coaches’ Corner at Don Cherry’s Sports Grill in Bradford was a “safe space” on Friday night, as the local sports bar hosted the Fierté Simcoe Pride Social.
There were free appetizers from Don Cherry’s, games and prizes and an opportunity to mingle in a safe space, surrounded by rainbow flags and a rainbow of balloons at the all-ages event that was open to the public.
Posters, printed up by the BWG Diversity Action Group, were made available to any organization, school or businesses that wanted to post messages that included: “We support 2SLBGTQ+ Rights”, or “This is a Safe Space.”
The social was just one of a long list of events celebrating two weeks of Fierté Simcoe Pride, July 29 to Aug. 11. The celebration began with flag-raisings and proclamations and ends this weekend with a Gala Awards night at CFB Borden and the Barrie Pride Festival.
The Bradford Pride Social was a first for the community, a partnership between Fierté Simcoe Pride and local organizations: the Bradford Women’s + Group and the BWG Diversity Action Group.
“We’re really excited to be partnering with them,” said Fiérte president Brandon Rhéal, urging guests to “socialize and enjoy.”
Rhéal also invited everyone to attend tonight’s Pride Gala at 32 Caen Circle at CFB Borden. The dinner is sold out, but it costs only $10 to attend the awards ceremony and the dance that follow, and tickets are still available online or at the door.
On Sunday, the Barrie Pride Festival will include vendors, performers, a Kids’ Bubble Dance Party, and at 7 p.m., an all-ages Foam Party.
“It’s free fun,” said Rhéal, “that will conclude 14 days of celebration across the county… I hope you’ll come and celebrate Pride with us.”
